JASPER – A $20.4 million renovation of Jasper Recreation Facilities led to its official reopening on Wednesday (Feb. 19).
The Jasper Activity Centre, arena and fitness and aquatic centre had work completed to be “modern, inclusive spaces designed to better serve the community,” according to a media release from the municipality.
“These renovated facilities are more than just buildings. They are a reflection of our community’s patience, resilience and commitment to inclusivity,” said Kathleen Waxer, Jasper’s deputy mayor in a media release.
The $20.4 million renovation had $3.05 million from provincial funding and $3.66 million in federal funding that was secured in 2019.
Construction began on July 17, 2023, but was halted during the wildfire that destroyed about one-third of housing in the townsite and led to the entire population being evacuated. It resumed in September, with a series of phased reopening in the following months.
The Jasper Arena opened on Dec. 8, 2024, and the Bonhomme Street entrance and arena changerooms opened on Dec. 18, 2024. The aquatic centre opened once again on Dec. 26, 2024, and the full reopening was on Feb. 19.
Among the work completed were expanding accessibility; adding a new elevator and gender-inclusive changerooms; upgrading mechanical and electrical systems to help with efficiency and sustainability; enhancing community spaces; revamping the lobby areas and new arena dressing rooms.
For more information on the project, visit: https://jasper-alberta.ca/p/jasper-activity-centre-renovation-project-.
