The Strathcona Regional District is moving forward with its REC-REATE project, a $64.6 million upgrade to the Strathcona Gardens rec centre.
The board adopted a borrowing bylaw for the project at their Nov. 8 meeting, after getting electoral approval through an Alternative Approval Process (AAP). A total of 106 electors voted to oppose the bylaw, under the threshold needed to stop the process.
The borrowed funds will be allocated for phase 1 and phase 2 of the REC-REATE project. Phase 1 will include a new aquatic centre with an eight-lane 25 metre pool, accessible therapy pool, hot pool, and leisure pool with a lazy river, climbing wall and waterslide. A new fitness and wellness centre with sauna and steam rooms will also be included in this phase along with renovated change rooms and administrative areas. The project team has successfully completed the design of the Aquatic and Wellness Center. The Regional District is currently obtaining the necessary permits from the City of Campbell River and preparing the construction tender to put out to bid once certification of the capital borrowing bylaw has been completed in early December 2023. Construction of the aquatics centre is anticipated to begin in the second quarter of 2024.
In early 2023, the REC-REATE project expanded its scope to include Phase 2, the renovation of the Rod Brind ‘Amour Arena. This major renovation will include increased seating to meet Junior A requirements, a walking track, new team and referee rooms, and more. The design of the Rod Brind ‘Amour Arena has begun and is well underway with site meetings and project team meetings that have included staff, user groups, and the consulting teams to confirm the scope of the original schematic design. It is anticipated that completion of the arena design and tender will be done prior to the completion of the aquatics facility which will allow for the transition of construction to happen seamlessly from the aquatic’s facility to the arena.
“I am delighted to see this project is proceeding and grateful that electors recognized the importance of a new recreation facility for our community,” said Susan Sinnott, Strathcona Gardens Commission Chair. “The Strathcona Gardens is a vital recreational hub that promotes the well-being of the community and will benefit users of all ages. We are not only building a new facility with the REC-REATE project, we’re building a stronger and healthier community.”
The Strathcona Regional District will continue providing updates at all stages of the REC-REATE project. For more information about the redevelopment of Strathcona Gardens recreation complex and to view detailed designs, please visit www.RecreateSG.ca.