Strathcona Gardens open house attendees got a first look at two different concepts being put forward to improve the recreation complex.
The preliminary plans were presented by consultant GDH Solutions at an open house June 11.
The first option proposes to build an wellness centre with a therapy pool, fitness and exercise room as well as a welcome centre for reception and information.
The plan also includes the addition of multi-purpose rooms, improved and expanded pool change rooms, increased program options and improved access to both upstairs and downstairs levels at Strathcona Gardens.
The second concept involves the revitalization of Rod Brind’Amour Arena, new and improved change rooms, as well as improved and expanded seating at the arena.
The open house was the final piece of the facility needs assessment which began earlier this year.
The process also involved a community survey in which Campbell River and Area D residents expressed a desire for better arena change rooms, improved spectator seating at Rod Brind’Amour Arena, another sheet of ice, and dryland training areas.
Survey respondents also identified a need for more lanes and a larger deck at the main pool, a bigger men’s change room, more family change rooms, more amenities at the pool, as well as more pool time.
The facility needs assessment was prompted by the Strathcona Gardens Commission’s review last year of a study that was done in the fall of 2004.
That study provided the commission with three options for seating at Rod Brind’Amour Arena – two of which involve renovating the existing arena and one which recommends building a new arena at Strathcona Gardens. The study also provided conceptual drawings for a wellness centre to be built beside the swimming pool.
Yves Bienvenu, Strathcona Gardens facility manager, suggested the facility needs assessment be done before the Strathcona Regional District commit to any large renovations.
With the facility needs assessment now wrapped up, GDH Solutions will compile all of the information it has collected and prepare a final report which it is expected to provide to the Strathcona Gardens Commission in July.