Aquatics Facility Expansion
The overall goal of the expansion is to ensure the facility continues to be a welcoming, fun, family-oriented and inclusive facility with amenities for all users.
Construction is progressing steadily, and while some noise and vibration are noticeable at the facility, they are typical for a project of this scale.
The Aquatics Facility Expansion brings the following benefits to our community and to facility users:
- Improves local access and choice of recreation
- An improved lobby helps build community and facilities for positive interactions
- Encourages youth to be active in recreation from a younger age
- Building at the existing facility realizes capital and operating cost efficiencies, keeping the cost as low as possible
Take a peek at the Main Floor Plan for layout details. While there will be interruptions to our facility’s services, it will be open throughout construction. The expansion is expected to be completed in early 2026.
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More Information
Project Updates
We will provide regular updates to notify the public and Aquatic Facility users about ongoing activities.
- September 4, 2024: Construction is progressing steadily. Some noise and vibration are noticeable at the facility, however, such is typical for a project of this scale.
- August 30 - September 3, 2024: The pool and Aquatics Facility at the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex will be closed from August 30 to September 3 as work on the expansion Project continues. The facility is expected to reopen to the public on Wednesday, September 4. Learn more
- August 6, 2024: Construction will begin shortly. Fencing and equipment are currently being moved on site.
Project Costs
Initial project costs will be covered by grants, reserves and other funding sources. Council supported borrowing up to $14 million to cover any remaining costs through a borrowing bylaw coming forward later this year. Funding for this complete project will be broken down into these sources:
Funding Source | Amount |
Property sale proceeds (Riverside Drive home resale) | $1,000,000 |
Provincial Grant funding | $11,799,774 |
Town of High River Aquatics Reserve | $387,520 |
Total Savings and Grant Funding | $13,187,294 |
Balance to be funded (borrowed) | $13,606, 628 |
Total project costs including contingency and costs to date | $26,793,922 |
New Amenities
The following new amenities can be enjoyed by all Aquatics Facility users upon expansion completion:
- Water slide with aqualucent effect
- Water feature and water play elements
- Sauna
- Whirlpool (hot tub)
- Leisure pool with level entry and a small teaching tank
- Pool deck with storage
- Inclusive change room with 22 private change stalls, showers and more
- Completely renovated lobby with kids' area, exercise room, concession stand and more
Service Disruptions
- The Town will provide appropriate notice, informing pool user groups and the public of pool closures and disruptions in service.
- Notice will take place through public service announcements and on this web page, describing what to expect when services are disrupted.
- Tentatively, only two pool closures are anticipated, of roughly 4-7 days in duration.
- Subscribe to receive timely information on service disruptions straight to your inbox.
Project History
July 2024
On July 8, 2024, High River’s Town Council voted to award a construction contract for the Aquatics Facility Expansion. After two years of planning, design work, and community feedback this marks a significant milestone. Construction work is underway, with completion anticipated for early 2026.
- Read the July 11 Media Release, which provides details about project benefits, the construction tender award and project funding
Summer and Fall 2023
Project renderings and schematic drawings (above) were shared in 2023, along with a Design Development report received in November, 2023. The foundation and tone for the updated design is in keeping with input received from the Aquatics Facility Design Working Group which included representatives from the High River community.
- Design Development Report (November 2023)
At their July 11, 2022 regular meeting of Council, after thoughtful deliberation, Town Council approved a plan to move forward with the Aquatics Facility Expansion. Council noted that the Fall 2021 Aquatics Facility Referendum was non-binding, giving them flexibility to review the results in context with other information.
"The decision comes down to our commitment to putting people first. Council believes the expansion will be a welcome addition to the community that will benefit the Town for years to come. It supports Council's vision to build High River's future by meeting the community's current and future needs." Craig Snodgrass, Mayor of High River
- View the July 11, 2022 Council package - Aquatics Facility Expansion (PDF)
- Read the July 12 Media Release (link)
At the July 11 meeting, Council also directed Administration to begin looking for a parcel of land to be used for a future new recreational facility as part of the Town’s long range planning. A new facility would be dependent on growth of the Town.
“High River offers a lifestyle that keeps residents here, attracts visitors from around the world, and is now attracting people and businesses to move here. The Aquatic Facility expansion and upgrades to our recreation complex will enhance the quality of life people expect here and we believe it will result in many positive returns for years to come.” Craig Snodgrass, Mayor of High River
We're here to help, contact us!
309B Macleod Trail S.W., High River, Alberta
Monday to Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm (Closed on statutory holidays)
poolexpansion@highriver.ca
communications@highriver.ca
Construction-related inquiries: 403-603-3416
Other inquiries: 403-603-3428
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