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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) The cost is going up for a Bismarck aquatics center about halfway finished.

The Bismarck Park Board contracted with the nonprofit Streamline Foundation for the building's cost at $8.7 million.

Streamline President Dennis Kemmesat says the cost has gone up about $700,000 because of soil problems and construction delays during the winter. He said a special contractor had to be brought in to build a stronger foundation.

The park board and Streamline have agreed to increase the contract amount to $9.4 million. A clause was added making the park district the owner of the center when the 25-year lease ends with Streamline.

The aquatics center is scheduled to be finished by Dec. 1.

Information from: Bismarck Tribune, http://www.bismarcktribune.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-03-09 1848CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list