OLDS – Town officials now have a better idea of roughly when and for how long the Aquatic Centre will be closed for renovations.
A news release issued June 20 says the shutdown is expected to last about 10 weeks, running from Aug. 1 to about Oct. 15. The release indicated that the end date is a bit hazy because "some work is weather-dependent. “
Back in April, town council was warned that due to the extensive renovations planned, the shutdown would last longer than regular shutdowns for pool maintenance. But at that time, it was not known when it would occur or for how long.
Town council OK’d the project late last fall.
The project, valued at $2.7 million, is primarily funded by a $2.2 million federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) grant, cost-shared on an 80/20 basis.
The town of Olds is contributing $400,000 and Mountain View County is allocating $140,000 for it.
The release admits the shutdown is “an extended closure period compared to previous years.” However, when the work is completed, it’s expected to extend the life of the 20-year-old facility by another 20 years.
Also the improvements are expected to make it more energy-efficient.
The town confirmed that due to the shutdown, Olds Aquatic Centre pass holders will see their passes automatically extended for the duration of the closure.
That idea was mentioned backed In April, when council was warned council about the extended shutdown period.
The June 20 news release described the GICB grant program as “a national merit-based initiative aimed at improving the availability and condition of community buildings in Canadian communities that have higher needs and are currently underserved.”
“By supporting retrofits, repairs, and upgrades of existing publicly accessible community buildings, as well as the construction of new ones, the program not only addresses the needs of underserved communities but also stimulates the economy and creates job opportunities,” the release said.
“The qualification process for the GICB program is highly competitive, with the Town of Olds competing against numerous similar communities across Canada,” it added.
Mayor Judy Dahl said in the release: "We are aware that the extended closure will have an impact on numerous Aquatic Centre users. However, considering the aging condition of the facility and its urgent need for improvement, we believe the public will comprehend the necessity of this upgrade."
Dahl expressed gratitude for the GIBC grant.
"Without this grant, upgrading our facility would have been impossible," she said.
For a more detail on the planned upgrades to the aquatic centre, visit www.olds.ca/PoolUpgradeDetails
