Public Consultation -- Quesnel Arts and Recreation Centre renovation options

Joint Release - City of Quesnel/Cariboo Regional District:

The City of Quesnel and Cariboo Regional District (CRD) are prioritizing a renovation to the Quesnel Arts and Recreation Centre (ARC). The facility will require a multi-million dollar investment to prolong its serviceable life. The pool is a full-service, multi-use space that is showing its age, no longer energy efficient, and needs more accessibility options to meet the needs of the community. The City and CRD are asking residents which of the three proposed renovation options they support.

City of Quesnel Councillor Roodenburg and CRD Director Mary Sjostrom (Area A- Red Bluff/Quesnel South) key spokespeople on the project know that for the past 40 years residents of all ages have used this community asset for recreation, culture and to improve overall health and wellness.

“The swimming pool is 40 years old and needs architectural, mechanical and electrical upgrades, and upgrading the existing pool is a better strategic investment for Quesnel’s future,” indicates Quesnel Councillor Roodenburg, “We require modern recreation amenities to attract and retain residents and to improve the quality of life for the people who call Quesnel home. Investing in our recreation infrastructure is essential to the long-term sustainability of our community.”

“Areas with new facilities and upgraded recreational and cultural facilities have a proven edge for recruitment and retention strategies to ensure continued community growth, economic diversity, and to keep the tax base stable.” notes Cariboo Regional District Director Mary Sjostrom (Area A – Red Bluff/Quesnel South).

Many COVID restrictions have been lifted allowing the opportunity for better face-to-face engagement and therefore three open houses have been planned starting June 1 to June 15. The open houses will take place each day at 4PM-7PM on the following dates and locations:

• Wednesday, June 1, 2022 - Quesnel Arts and Recreation Centre, 500 North Star Rd
• Monday, June 13, 2022 - École Red Bluff Lhtako Elementary, 1533 Maple Dr
• Wednesday, June 15, 2022 - Bouchie Lake Hall, 1975 Centennial Rd

Staff and elected officials will be on hand to discuss and collect feedback on three options which range from utility upgrades and accessibility improvements to an expansion of the leisure pool with a waterslide.

Residents are encouraged to come out and provide feedback. There will also be other opportunities to provide feedback through www.letsconnectquesnel.ca/pool and paper surveys will be available in person at the City of Quesnel and the CRD Quesnel Office. The deadline for input is Friday, June 24.

Complete details regarding the scope of the project are online at: www.letsconnectquesnel.ca/pool