Fundraising for the Lets’emot Regional Aquatic Centre took a big leap forward in 2024.
On Wednesday (Jan. 10), Enbridge presented a cheque for $50,000 to the District of Kent toward the construction of the future pool. Aside from the initial grant funding from the provincial and federal governments, this marks one of the most significant sums donated to the aquatic centre to date.
The Calgary-based energy company operates the world’s largest and most complex liquids transportation system and has a pipeline near Agassiz.
District Mayor Sylvia Pranger expressed deep gratitude for the donation, saying the $50,000 will go a long way toward creating a facility for the community and their neighbours to enjoy for years to come.
“We have been a part of this community for almost 70 years now, and it continues to inspire us,” said Michelle Furlong, Enbridge’s T-South area manager. “Setting an example by collectively working to make this state-of-the-art facility happen makes it easy for others to follow. We encourage everyone to ‘jump in and help fill the pool’ so we can all enjoy the Lets’emot Regional Aquatic Centre by end of next year.”
Enbridge’s donation is part of their ongoing Fueling Futures Program, which is designed to invest in communities and cultural celebrations through donations, volunteering and sponsorships.
The aquatic centre will replace the 45-year-old Ferny Coombe Outdoor Pool, the only pool within 26 kilometres of the Agassiz townsite. The 27,000-square-foot building would feature an eight-lane lap pool, lazy river, leisure pool and more.
In November, the Agassiz Fire Department Charitable Society donated $30,000 toward the aquatic centre. Other local efforts to raise money for the construction included a swimathon at the Ferny Coombe pool, a walkathon from Agassiz to Chilliwack and a golf tournament.
The lion’s share of the funding currently comes from the province at $9.5 million with $454,000 coming from the federal government. Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon MP Brad Vis advocated for further funding from the feds in Ottawa back in May after being able to present a petition before Parliament. The surrounding governments – including Harrison Hot Springs, the Fraser Valley Regional District and various First Nations communities – have all expressed their support for the huge undertaking.
Details on the construction are expected to be released for bidding soon. Based on the current timeline from the district, the Lets’emot Regional Aquatic Centre is set to open its doors to the public by the end of next year.
To donate to fundraising efforts and to learn how you can help, visit kentbc.ca/fill_the_pool.
