SRD Celebrates Groundbreaking Ceremony for REC-REATE

(Campbell River, BC) — The Strathcona Regional District (SRD) celebrated a significant milestone on September 10, 2024, with the groundbreaking ceremony for the highly anticipated REC-REATE project. The event took place at Strathcona Gardens on the future site of the new aquatic centre, officially marking the commencement of construction for this major community enhancement project.

Members of the Strathcona Gardens Commission, SRD Board and representatives from the Wei Wai Kum First Nation gathered for the ceremony, which featured remarks from Strathcona Gardens Commission Chair, Susan Sinnott, who emphasized the importance of the new facility for the community. The event was a testament to the collective efforts of the SRD, community members, and various partners who supported the development of the project.

The REC-REATE project will enhance the community’s recreational offerings and set a new standard in leisure and wellness. The renewed Strathcona Gardens will be a place where fitness, rehabilitation, therapy, competitive, and recreation sport form a uniquely holistic approach to wellness that is vital to the social fabric of Campbell River and Area D residents.

“After years of community and government support, we are thrilled to finally break ground on this exciting project,” said Susan Sinnott, Strathcona Gardens Commission Chair. “It is a great feeling to see this project come to life and we all look forward to the positive impact it will have on our residents’ health, wellness, and recreational opportunities.”

Phase One – the New Aquatic and Wellness Centre, scheduled to be completed by 2027, will include a new aquatic centre with an 8-lane 25 m pool, accessible therapy pool, hot pool, and leisure pool with a lazy river, climbing wall, and waterslide. A new fitness and wellness centre with sauna and steam rooms will also be included in this phase along with renovated change rooms and administrative areas.

Construction has officially started. The REC-REATE project represents a significant investment in the Region’s future, reflecting the SRD’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyles and enhancing recreational options for community members.

• For more details about the REC-REATE project, please visit RecreateSG.ca.
• To stay updated on construction progress or facility impacts, please visit strathconagardens.com/construction.

ABOVE FEATURED PHOTO – Members of the Strathcona Gardens Commission perform the ceremonial first dig, officially marking the start of construction. (From L to R – Commissioners Cal Grunerud, Ron Kerr, Susan Sinnott (Chair), John Rice (Vice-Chair), and Kermit Dahl).

Strathcona Gardens Commission & several SRD Board members

Attendees of the groundbreaking event included the Strathcona Gardens Commission, several SRD Board members, representatives from the Wei Wai Kum First Nation, and members of the project team.