A more modern and spacious recreation and community centre on Red Deer’s north side is expected to reopen in late spring or early summer after more than 18 months of construction.
The G.H. Dawe Community Centre was opened to the news media on Wednesday so they could see what kind of work has taken place in the past 18 months.
“We wanted to create a little excitement in the community on what it’s going to look like,” said City of Red Deer project superintendent Jerry Hedlund. “People have been asking about it.”
Hedlund said the project is on track, on time and on budget.
The $29.9-million project will boast five pool basins — a children’s play pool, leisure pool, spray pool, large hot tub and an updated four-lane lap pool.
It will also feature two water slides, a sauna, steam room, three multi-purpose rooms, a multi-use gym, fitness and workout area, and food services.
The Red Deer Public Library’s Dawe branch will have a much larger area to integrate services for children, teen, adult and literacy programs. The library will also have a lounge area with a fireplace, plus computers for Internet access and a new collection of books, CDs and DVDs.
“The best part is we’re doing all of this with the environment in mind,” said Hedlund.
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design project includes water conservation measures like dual-flush toilets as well as energy efficiencies when it comes to windows and heating.
The city also wanted to ensure users aren’t breathing in irritating, indoor contaminants. Low-emitting paints, glues, adhesives and flooring materials are being used.
Gulam wood beams and purlins (wooden supports) were installed in the pool area as one further way of being sustainable for the long term.
Hedlund said these beams and supports are certified, which shows the wood comes from a well-managed forest.
To see photos of the G.H. Dawe Community Centre revitalization, go online at
ltester@www.reddeeradvocate.com