The city of Vernon, B.C. celebrated the groundbreaking of the new Active Living Centre after seven years of planning. Mayor Victor Cumming expressed excitement for the new facility, which is expected to open to the public by fall of 2026. With the Greater Vernon area growing at a rapid pace, the new rec centre will provide much-needed space for the community to engage in various activities. The new centre will replace the aging pool that was built in 1966 and will feature state-of-the-art amenities such as an aquatic centre with an eight-lane, 50-metre pool, a fitness centre, multiple sport courts, a synthetic walking/running track, and multipurpose rooms.
The Integrated Project Delivery team worked diligently to achieve a versatile design for the Active Living Centre that meets the needs of the community while also having the capacity to host events. Clark Builders, a construction company with over 50 years of experience in building recreational and wellness centres, was selected to bring the city’s vision to life. Senior vice-president Randy Kyrzyk expressed excitement about the project, stating that they are combining the best elements to create a facility that will have it all. Mayor Cumming assured the public that the project would stay within its budget of $135,941,009, with Kyrzyk expressing confidence in the partners on the project team to deliver on that promise.
Preparation work for the construction of the new Active Living Centre is set to begin, with heavy equipment expected to arrive at the site in the coming days. As a safety precaution, track users will be limited to the north end of the Kin Race Track lands and are advised to access the Kal Tire Place north parking lot. The new facility is seen as a significant milestone for the community, offering residents a modern and well-equipped space for recreational activities. The Active Living Centre will provide a range of amenities including an aquatic centre with a leisure pool, diving boards, a lazy river, and a major waterslide, as well as a fitness centre, double gymnasium, synthetic walking/running track, and multipurpose rooms.
The new Active Living Centre in Vernon, B.C. is expected to meet the needs of a growing community, with Greater Vernon seeing approximately 1,000 new residents each year. Mayor Cumming emphasized the importance of having a facility that can effectively accommodate the increasing population. The modern amenities at the Active Living Centre will cater to a range of interests and activities, providing residents with a welcoming and inclusive space for exercise and recreation. The project is seen as a valuable addition to the city’s infrastructure, showcasing a commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle among its residents.
Construction on the Active Living Centre is set to begin soon, with the project team working to ensure that the facility remains within its budget and meets the expectations of the community. With Clark Builders at the helm of the construction process, residents can expect a high-quality facility that combines the best features for an exceptional recreational experience. The Active Living Centre represents a significant investment in the well-being of Vernon residents, offering a space for individuals and families to come together and engage in physical activity. The new facility is expected to open its doors to the public in fall of 2026, providing a much-anticipated space for community members to enjoy a variety of recreational activities in a modern and well-equipped setting.
