The City has announced a “comprehensive operational review” of the Westsyde Pool and Fitness Centre, citing low cost recovery and calling its location “challenging.”

Last month, staff advised Council that McArthur Island, Brock, and Valleyview arenas will shift to dry-floor / non-ice use in spring and summer once the arena multiplex is operational as an ice-first, year-round facility.

When neighbourhood recreation facilities lose hours, staffing, programs, or amenities, facility use declines. The decline often cited to justify further cuts or “optimization.”

Neighbourhood facilities have undergone reviews or program changes in the past, but with the City approving major new projects knowing they will require operating subsidies, the broader context is unclear.

If recreation facilities and/or programming were to be increasingly concentrated up the hill, it could create access and travel impacts for some residents.

As well, increased travel distances and vehicle use would raise questions about alignment with the City’s environmental and climate commitments.

Hopefully greater clarity will be provided on whether new projects will affect any current facilities—and if so, how access to neighbourhood recreation may change.

Email citycouncil@kamloops.ca with questions or feedback.