The Town of Innisfail is moving forward with a major modernization of the existing Innisfail Aquatic Centre.
The process is estimated to take between eight to ten months, with construction expected to start mid-year.
“There have been no substantial renovations to the Innisfail Aquatic Centre since the facility was built in 1987,” explains Meghan Jenkins, the town’s director of community services. “Many of the facility’s mechanical and structural components need replacement simply to maintain functionality and to comply with applicable codes and best practices”.
Town Council agreed that upgrading the existing facility was the best option.
Council had considered building a new facility, however a sharp increase in building costs during the design phase rendered that plan unrealistic without significant support from other levels of government.
“The cost of at least $30 million for a new aquatic centre is too much of a financial burden on our residents and businesses to shoulder alone. The option to renovate provides the best value for our taxpayers while maintaining this important community amenity” said Innisfail Mayor Jean Barclay. “As construction costs continue to escalate, and taking into consideration the condition of the current facility, it is important for us to move forward now”.
The cost of the project is estimated to be just over $12 million, with much of the funding coming from town reserves and a debenture. The town says it will seek grants to help cover the cost.
Town staff are still in the process of finalizing details of the renovation, which will be conducted by Chandos Construction and Group2 Architecture.
The town is expected to provide an extensive overview for the public once plans are complete and dates have been finalized.
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