Olds Aquatic Centre will be closed for 10 weeks while it undergoes a $2.7-million upgrade.
Renovations are expected to begin in August and run until mid-October. The overhaul is expected to reduce ongoing energy costs by more than 40 per cent and extend the life of the facility by 20 years.
This project is largely funded with a $2.2 million federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) grant. The town is contributing $400,000 and Mountain View County is putting in $140,000.
The aquatic centre has a waterslide, five-lane 25-metre lap pool, 16-person hot tub, and a tot pool with a handicapped-accessible beach-style entry.
The GICB program is 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 under-served, says the town in a news release.
“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 under-served communities but also stimulates the economy and creates job opportunities.”
Olds Mayor Judy Dahl said without the grant the town would not have been able to do the project, which will cover 80 per cent of the cost.
“We are aware that the extended closure will have an impact on numerous Aquatic Centre users,” said Dahl.
“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.”
