Saskpower looks for contractor to build logistics warehouse at GTH

Saskpower has begun a procurement competition that will decide what contractor will build its Logistics Warehouse Complex at the Global Transportation Hub (GTH).

Earthworks construction began last fall, while the two-phase construction activities will begin in 2021. The first phase will be complete in 2023, and the second in 2026. The first phase of the project is estimated to cost $100 million. All contracts are being awarded through a public procurement process.

“This is an important next step that will determine who will build this facility, which will increase operational efficiency, allow us to move necessary equipment faster and help reduce our overall maintenance and upkeep costs in the Regina area,” Grant Ring, Saskpower vice-president of supply chain, said in a news release.

The warehouse complex is part of Saskpower's long-term strategy to bring employees together in fewer locations. Saskpower currently has 1,600 Regina-area staff spread across 13 buildings. The goal is to reduce that to just six locations.

The plan also includes the acquisition of a $4.5 million building at 2101 Scarth St. and $120 million in renovations to the Saskpower headquarters on Victoria Avenue.

Last year, NDP Leader Ryan Meili criticized the warehouse project and questioned whether the GTH was the best location.

“It does again seem like they're using Crown corporations, using public dollars, to provide cover for a failed project,” said Meili in a Leader-post article published on April 19, 2020.

Dustin Duncan, previously the minister responsible for Saskpower, denied the accusation that the decision to locate the warehouse on the GTH was done for political reasons, and said the Crown itself suggested the project.