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Renewal for recreation facility

The recreation centre is a hub for physical activity in communities across B.C.

The recreation centre is a hub for physical activity in communities across B.C.

Parks, trails, pools, arenas and community centres are often the first place active people seek out. They are inclusive and strive to engage the community; however, these facilities are increasingly challenged.

According to the B.C. Recreation and Parks Association’s report, A Time for Renewal, upwards of 75 per cent of B.C.’s recreation, parks and sports facilities are 25 years of age and older and half are over 35 years old and “in urgent need of renewal or replacement.”

These inefficient, aging facilities are not only environmentally wasteful but also consume substantial resources just to maintain. “More than replacement, it is imperative that we ensure a sufficient and appropriate stock of recreation facilities exist to support healthy living, adapting our facilities so that the demographic, cultural, heritage and health needs of the population are met,” reads the report.

Well-planned multi-purpose facilities, outdoor spaces and trails support and promote healthy and active lifestyles. They enable people of all ages to participate in physical activity.

Recreation facilities also promote community development and viability. Parks, trails and recreation facilities increase property values and tax revenue.

Recreation facilities generate construction and operations job opportunities and support tourism, providing venues for everything from high-performance sporting events to recreational attractions.

Renewed infrastructure will help maintain the economic and social viability of B.C. communities. Municipalities have invested in the well-being of their citizens but they need to seek support from other levels of government and to plan for the future.

On Nov. 19th, support the referendum to finance the construction of the fitness centre expansion.