The District of Kent released a few more details concerning the future Regional Aquatic Centre on Monday, May 2.
According to the press release, the recently-named future Regional Aquatic Centre will be located at Centennial Park next to the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre. This location closely mirrors the facility plans discussed in 2019.
The new aquatic centre is set to include a six-lane lap pool, a shallow leisure pool with a lazy river, a hot tub, a sauna and steam room, a common gathering area and changerooms. The District states the building will be constructed to meet Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) shared cost agreement criteria. These criteria include high environmental and accessibility standards.
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A total of $13.5 million was dedicated to the project through the federal government’s contribution of $454,000, the province dedicating $9.5 million and $3.6 million coming from municipal, First Nations and other funding streams.
As the timeline ticks slowly toward completion, the highest priority for the district’s project is raising funds to cover the remaining estimated cost of the facility.
“The District will be actively engaging neighbouring communities to develop financial partnerships, if possible, and community fundraising initiatives,” officials stated.
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One such initiative is the upcoming Party in the Park on May 14. The first event will run from 3 p.m. to midnight, featuring activities such as a climbing wall, dunk tank, a special showing from the SuperDogs, live music and a movie in the park.
According to the district’s website, the ultimate fundraising goal currently sits at $1 million. Future fundraising events will include a hanging basket sale and a community swim-a-thon.
Though there have been many recent developments in the aquatic centre project, efforts toward the goal stretch back several years in multiple levels of government. Last year, the District of Kent applied for funding through the ICIPfor a $16.2 million Regional Aquatic Centre. The surrounding governments – Seabird Island Band, Stó:lo Tribal Council, Sts’ailes, Sq’éwlets, Skawahlook, Popkum and Peters First Nations as well as Harrison Hot Springs and the Fraser Valley Regional District – have all expressed support for the project.
“I am so excited to start the work to bring a year-round aquatic centre to our community and region,” stated District Mayor Sylvia Pranger. “Thanks to the hard work of staff, Council and former Mayors and Councils, we can move forward with enthusiasm.”
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