That’s a suggestion that could be made by weekend warriors and parents alike in the future as the design for Pasadena’s new recreation centre was released by the town yesterday. It will include a rock-climbing wall, as well as a fitness centre and a full-size gymnasium.
The town has been promising the release of the details since last fall, but had been “tweaking the design” since that time, according to Mayor Gary Bishop. The project was announced in August of 2011 by Premier Kathy Dunderdale, who made the announcement at the Pasadena sports field.
It’s been made possible because of an $8-million agreement between the town and the province, as well as the Department of Municipal Affairs.
The final design calls for a 1,975 square-metre building that will also include such features as a walking track, community kitchen and several multi-purpose meeting rooms.
Existing outdoor recreational amenities such as tennis courts, basketball courts, soccer and baseball fields and walking trails will also complement the new structure.
Pasadena resident Paulette Grimes said she’s happy to have a place to bring her grandchildren when they visit from Alberta.
“I wish it could have happened five years ago, but at least we have it now,” she said. “I’d like to see less time between the announcement and the actual construction. They announce it so far in advance.”
Brenda Park of Pasadena said she’s looking forward to the facility’s completion, as is her nine-year-old daughter.”
“My daughter was there the day (the premier) announced it, and she’s been excited for it ever since,” said Park. “She’s been asking, ‘When will they start building it?’ ever since, all the time.“
Park said her daughter participates in Girl Guides, which could be housed in the new recreation centre.
At the time of the announcement, parent Kevin Garnier said the new structure will be a welcome change.
“The facility now is good but it’s outdated and small, so this is needed here,” he said. “It will be great to have a new facility with lots of available space that no one will have to fight over.”
He said Pasadena has expanded greatly over the past few years, with a lot of new families moving in. The new facility, he hopes, will meet everyone’s needs.
According to the release, the facility will include geothermal heating and low-energy lighting. Tender documents are now being finalized and construction is expected to begin in May.
phutchings@thewesternstar.com
Twitter: WStarDeerLake
@ Wallace - If they had to pass a common sense test as you have suggested we wouldn't have many politicians in office now, great idea though!