The Summerland Aquatic & Fitness Centre is at end-of-life. The original facility was constructed in 1976, when Summerland’s population was approximately half of what it is today.
The 2018 Parks & Recreation Master Plan community survey indicated that replacing this facility was one of the highest priorities for the community.
Based on a 2018 Facility Condition Assessment, all major building mechanical, electrical and pool systems have exceeded their expected usable life. Most of the building envelope is in poor condition with significant air and water leakage and potential for mold. The facility is consuming approximately 86% more energy per unit of floor area than the average swimming pool, and it does not have fully modern accessible, universal, or family change rooms.
The District completed a comprehensive community engagement process and Needs Assessment in 2021 which outlined desired core components/spaces to include a new Recreation Centre.
The Recreation Feasibility & Site Fit Study final report was received by Council on February 28, 2022. Council endorsed a proposed new recreation centre adding to the Summerland Arena and Curling Club site (8820 Jubilee Road E) as the preferred site strategy, if a referendum indicates public support for the project.
In December 2022, several additional studies were completed including Updated Cost Estimate, Green Building Assessment, Site Civil Connections Assessment and Site Geotechnical Assessment.
The District of Summerland applied for a $6 million grant through the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Strategic Priorities Fund Capital Infrastructure Stream. The District of Summerland has been informed the application was not approved for funding and the intake was oversubscribed.
The District applied for a $25 million grant through the Green & Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program to obtain funding to construct a net-zero carbon building. No timeline has been identified when the GICB grant announcements will be made.
On November 4, 2023, eligible voters in Summerland will vote in a referendum for the Summerland Recreation Centre, a multi-purpose indoor recreation facility includes:
- Six-lane, 25m lap pool, leisure pool, hot tub, steam or sauna room
- Modern change rooms including fully accessible and family/universal change spaces
- Fitness Centre
- Fitness/activity multi-purpose room
- Youth/family multi-purpose room
- Lobby, pool viewing, reception, administration offices
- Energy efficient construction to a LEED Silver standard
Prior to General Voting Day, the District of Summerland is undertaking a 10-week information campaign to provide detailed project information for voters, to help them make a well-informed decision. A comprehensive project information page is available HERE.
Project timeline and milestones are outlined below:
