Construction funding, project phasing and final approvals will be considered by Council at a later date.
After considering three recreation centre investment options, Council has chosen a path forward that will advance detailed design of new leisure water amenities while laying the foundation for future recreation amenities and expansion opportunities.
The option selected includes planning for new leisure water amenities, renewal of the existing leisure pool, new change room facilities and appropriately sized supporting infrastructure that would allow additional amenities to be added in future phases with less rework.
"This decision reflects Council's commitment to investing in recreation while planning for Okotoks’ future," said Mayor Thorn. "Council carefully considered the information available and selected the option it believes best balances community needs, long-term flexibility and fiscal responsibility."
The three options presented to Council included a phased recreational expansion beginning with leisure water and supporting infrastructure for future growth; a more limited leisure water project with no significant future expansion components; and a facility renewal-only approach.
“These options build on priorities identified through the Recreation, Parks and Leisure Master Plan, which gathered input from more than 1,000 residents and recreation users and identified leisure water as the community's highest recreation priority,” said Christa Michailuck, Parks & Recreation Director.
While Council has selected a preferred option, construction has not been approved. The next phase focuses on detailed design work, including updated capital and operating cost estimates, phasing, constructability and procurement readiness so the project is shovel-ready and well positioned for future grant funding opportunities.
Residents can learn more about the selected option, future engagement opportunities and frequently asked questions at okotoks.ca/rec-centre-next-steps
Quick Facts
• Leisure water was identified as the community's highest recreation priority through previous community engagement.
• The preliminary planning estimate for this option is approximately $76.4 million.
• Renewal of the existing leisure pool is included in this project
• No funding strategy or construction timeline has been approved at this time.
• Construction funding and approvals would be considered by Council at a future date.