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Firm hired to look into new recreation facilities and sites

Sep 16, 2019 | 3:17 PM

Plans for a new Greater Vernon active living centre continue to move ahead.

The City of Vernon has hired FaulknerBrowns Architects, based out of the United Kingdom, to conduct a feasibility study for new facilities.

The study will look at the need and potential locations for new venues, as endorsed by local politicians earlier this year in a short term action plan.

“The short term action plan included a recommendation to proceed with the development of a request for proposals for an analysis to consider the feasibility of, and potential locations for, new recreational facilities including a new indoor aquatic facility, gymnasiums, fitness spaces (including a walking track), program spaces and to consider future enhancement of the current Aquatic Centre,” Doug Ross, the City’s recreational services director said in his report to council’s committee of the whole meeting Monday.

The study will also look at funding options such as taxes and user fees.

An online petition in 2018, backed by the Kokanee Swim Club, called on local politicians to plan a 50-metre, eight-lane, multi-purpose aquatic centre.

“We have outgrown our current facility, which is too small and inadequate in serving the needs of over 60,000 citizens in Greater Vernon, Coldstream and surrounding towns,” the petition said.

Possible sites for new recreational venues include the former Kin Race Track on 43rd Avenue, next to Kal Tire Place, land which is owned by the city.

Public engagement sessions:

Open House 1 Sunday, November 24, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Vernon Recreation Centre – Auditorium

Open House 2 (February 2020 – date to be confirmed)

Timeline:

Short list of Design Options – early November
Feasibility Study Draft 1 – Report – December 20, 2019
Feasibility Study Draft 2 – Report – February 14, 2020
Feasibility Study – Final Report – March 24, 2020

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