Calling all builders - the province is courting a consortium to build the Okanagan's new jail.
The government has issued a request for qualifications to identify companies that want to join the
public-private partnership project. Officials will shortlist up to three
proponents and ask them to submit proposals on the design, construction and financing of the facility.
The government decided in February to build the 378-cell, high-security facility on reserve land owned by the Osoyoos Indian Band. Once finished in late 2016, the jail will double the capacity for inmates in the Interior.
The cost of building the project is estimated at $200 million. It's expected to create up to 500 direct and 500 indirect construction jobs, as well as 240 new correctional positions.
"The request for qualifications is a major step forward for this project that will ultimately create over 1,000 jobs and help keep British Columbians and their families safe," said Shirley Bond, minister of justice and attorney general.