Hay River recreation centre to be rebuilt, not renovated

The town of Hay River, N.W.T., has decided to build a new recreation centre instead of renovating and expanding the old one.

Hay River mayor, Brad Mapes, says a new facility eliminates the unforeseen problems possible with a renovation. 

"Our community is like a lot of other communities in the North in that community wellness is really low," Mapes says. "The rec centre is a project that will do a lot toward bringing better wellness to our community." 

The town was given $4.2 million by Infrastructure Canada in March to renovate and expand the Don Stewart Recreation Centre. 

In October, Hay River residents voted in favour of allowing the town to increase its borrowing limit so that it can borrow around $15 million for the project. 

Mapes says the town made the decision to build a brand new centre after negotiating with Clark Builders. He can't confirm how much the new centre will cost compared to renovating the old one because the negotiations aren't complete.

The new recreation centre will have a walking track, be more energy efficient and have a larger canteen and cafeteria. 

The decision will temporarily have a major impact on sports in Hay River. The arena, curling club, hockey rink, community hall and meeting rooms will close this July and remain close for 15 months.

The swimming pool will remain open.