The former water treatment plant in Ponoka was officially opened as a community centre for the new Hudson’s Green subdivision on Friday.
The 29-year-old facility was in operation until the town joined the regional water system in 1996.
Rather than demolish the structurally sound building, it was decided the structure would be incorporated into the green space planned for the northwest neighbourhood. The town envisioned a facility that could be used by community groups and residents for meetings, events, recreation and other types of learning activities.
That dream became a reality on Friday when local dignitaries gathered to unveil the converted plant.
“The Hudson’s Green Community Activity Centre will be a welcome addition to our town and we can see it becoming a focal point in the Hudson’s Green community,” Ponoka Mayor Larry Henkelman said.
“Local venues are always at a premium and particularly a facility located within a residential community will become a popular site.”
The activity centre offers nearly 3,300 square feet of public space. The building contains a large multi-use common area, a meeting space, a fully equipped kitchen and washrooms.
Landscaping will begin in the spring and will follow the green space concept outlined in the Hudson’s Green area structure plan.
Future “green” plans for the interior of the facility include the development of a living wall with year-round vegetation, the installation of solar tubes and hot water solar collectors.
The town received more than $237,000 from the federal government through the Community Adjustment Fund to help pay for the renovation project, which cost more than $488,000. The balance of the project was funded through town resources.
For information on renting the Hudson’s Green Community Activity Centre, call 403-783-4431.