In a recent city council meeting, officials approved a significant construction contract for the Nitroblast attraction at NRH2O Family Waterpark, awarding CGC Contractors Inc. a total of $3,096,771. This decision marks a pivotal step in the park's ongoing development, as it prepares to replace the aging Green Extreme attraction, which has been in operation since the park's opening in 1995.

The Nitroblast project is part of the park's Capital Improvement Program, which has allocated funds for its construction as part of the fiscal year 2022-2023 budget. The waterpark, owned and operated by the city, is funded through its operating revenues and is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2025.

The timeline for the Nitroblast project has been extensive, beginning with design and engineering work in December 2022. After several phases of bidding and design revisions, the final proposal from CGC Contractors was accepted following a competitive bidding process that initially yielded only one bid. The city council emphasized the importance of value engineering and project management to ensure the project remains within budget and on schedule.

Funding for the Nitroblast construction will be sourced from a combination of park fund reserves and debt issuance, with a repayment plan structured over 20 years from the park's operating funds. The council expressed confidence in the project's contingency plans, which include a 15% reserve to address any unforeseen challenges during construction.

As the city moves forward with this project, it aims to enhance the recreational offerings at NRH2O, ensuring it remains a vital attraction for residents and visitors alike.