After completing a comprehensive needs assessment for the replacement of the Summerland Aquatic and Fitness Centre and exploring the inclusion of a Primary Health Care Centre, the municipality of Summerland is now undertaking feasibility and site fit studies for both facilities.
The recreation centre project consultants have been exploring facility design options at two locations. The first option is renovating or a new build at the existing Kelly Avenue site adjacent to Summerland Secondary School. The second option is to build a new facility adjacent to the Summerland Arena on Jubilee Road.
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Public input is encouraged between Nov. 15 and 29.
A public open house is scheduled for Nov. 16 at the Summerland Arena Banquet Room. Two sessions are available at 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Due to COVID-19 protocols, pre-registration is required by emailing recreation@summerland.ca.
The existing Summerland Aquatic and Fitness Centre was built in 1976 and for at least the past three years, municipal staff have said the facility is at the end of its serviceable life.
In 2018, a 108-page report prepared by Stantec Consulting Ltd. suggested the facility should be replaced as it is consuming around 86 per cent more energy per unit of floor area than the average swimming pool.
In addition, the community has roughly doubled in population since the facility was constructed.
The facility has been expanded over the years, including the addition of a fitness room in 1996.
A new recreation centre only happens once every 40 to 50 years, so community input is critical. An online survey for the recreation centre project will be open starting on Nov. 15 at www.summerland.ca/rec-and-health-centre. The primary health care centre feasibility study will roll out engagement opportunities in early 2022.
Presentation boards will also be on display at the lobby of the Aquatic and Fitness Centre, Summerland Arena and municipal hall. Paper surveys will be available.
Visit www.summerland.ca/rec-and-health-centre for more information on this project.
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