Strathcona Gardens REC-REATE Phase 2 Proceeds to Alternative Approval Process
(Campbell River, BC) – The next chapter of the Strathcona Gardens REC-REATE project was a focus of this week’s Strathcona Regional District (SRD) Board meeting. The Board has approved the launch of a second Alternative Approval Process (AAP) following authorization from the Inspector of Municipalities. This AAP relates to Bylaw No. 607, which would authorize the SRD to borrow up to $57.1 million to support Phase 2 of the REC-REATE project—the full renovation and modernization of the Rod Brind’Amour Arena.
Phase 1 of the project, funded through a previously approved borrowing bylaw (Bylaw No. 342), includes a new Aquatic and Wellness Centre featuring an 8-lane, 25-metre lap pool, therapy pool, leisure pool, hot pool, and enhanced fitness and wellness spaces.
Phase 2 focuses on the Rod Brind’Amour Arena and will deliver significant improvements shaped by community input, including increased spectator seating to meet Junior A standards, a new indoor walking track offering all-weather, year-round fitness, modern team and referee rooms, enhanced accessibility and circulation, warm-area viewing, and vibrant new multipurpose and viewing spaces. Other upgrades include a new elevator, concessions on both levels, space for a second-floor beer garden, and new ice melt pits to improve rink operations. Design work for the arena was completed in May 2025, and construction could begin in Spring 2026, concurrent with the completion of Phase 1.
“We’re incredibly proud of what’s been achieved so far. The REC-REATE project is already transforming Strathcona Gardens into a state-of-the-art facility,” said Susan Sinnott, Chair of the Strathcona Gardens Commission. “Phase 2 is a critical step toward modernizing the Rod Brind’Amour Arena and ensuring the SRD continues to meet the needs of families, athletes, and fans for decades to come.”
The next steps for the Regional Board will be to advertise its intent and provide information on the nature of the project, the amount of money required to be borrowed, and the financial impact on the residents should the approval process be successful. This information along with the elector response forms are available online at www.srd.ca/strathcona-gardens-aap .
The Strathcona Regional District remains committed to keeping the community informed throughout every phase of the REC-REATE project. To learn more about the Strathcona Gardens redevelopment and view detailed design plans, visit www.RecreateSG.ca.
