The construction of Riverview Station in Athabasca has not been abandoned.
The long-gestating development in front of Home Hardware has experienced many hiccups, most notably in June of 2011 when Rose Country Developers discovered a gas line running through the property and evidence of organic materials left over from previous use.
But after a hiatus, the development is getting back on track according to one partner, Neil Cameron, who said there is a significant amount of work being done behind the scenes.
ìI would say it is in progress,î Cameron said.
ìItís definitely much slower than anyone ever anticipated óthatís probably an understatement.î
The property borders Highway 2, which required Alberta Transportation to sign off on the services, as well as the Town of Athabasca and a general contractor. This process took a lot longer than the developers anticipated.
The developers worked with the town to create a building that was suitable for the location.
ìEverything has checked out with the foundation,î Cameron said.
ìThere was never really problems with it; it just took a lot more engineering than what was originally anticipated.î
Cameron said he wants people to know the project is moving forward, even if there is no on-site work being completed currently.
ìWhen we talk to the contractors and looking at feasibility to finish, you are probably looking at a six-month process,î he said.
ìIt will probably be this spring, and going until late fall.î
Cameron said that is a realistic estimate of the time it will take for the building to be completed.
ìItís definitely a work in progress,î he repeated.
The Town of Athabasca has labeled the property on the riverfront as direct control, which means the developers must meet the requirements of town council in regards to the building.
