ABBOTSFORD – With a federal government investment exceeding $4.45 million, the Abbotsford Recreation Centre is gearing up for a heat recovery and optimization project. Minister Harjit S. Sajjan and Mayor Ross Siemens jointly announced this initiative, aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and curbing greenhouse gas emissions in the building.
This comprehensive project not only promises improved air quality but also focuses on bolstering accessibility and sustainability within the vital community facility. Specifically, it encompasses the enhancement of wheelchair lifts to promote inclusivity, ensuring that those with mobility challenges can navigate spaces with autonomy and safety. Additionally, the plan involves retrofitting the existing HVAC system and interconnecting all heating systems to optimize the sharing of thermal energy throughout the facility. Anticipated outcomes include a substantial 41.37% reduction in energy consumption and an annual decrease of 455 tonnes in greenhouse gas emissions, yielding significant energy savings.
“The City of Abbotsford is grateful to the Government of Canada for their significant investment in this project which supports our efforts to reduce carbon pollution in our city. Abbotsford Recreation Centre is our largest recreation facility and plays a vital role in the overall health and livability of the community. This project will help to make ARC more energy efficient as well as more accessible to all users and aligns with Abbotsford City Council’s values of environmental and financial sustainability,” said Ross Siemens, Mayor of the City of Abbotsford.
The federal government is investing $4,456,646 to this project through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program and the City of Abbotsford is contributing $5,614,105.
Business Examiner Staff