QUALICUM BEACH – The Ravensong Aquatic Centre Expansion project has received up to $7 million through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, as announced by the Federal government. This contribution forms a significant portion of the $36 million project budget.
The Ravenson facility is owned and operated by the Regional District of Nanaimo and will be funded through the contribution, long-term borrowing if approved through the referendum on April 5, 2025, and $6 million from capital reserves. The federal contribution will reduce the RDN’s reliance on borrowing the full amount of the proposed $30 million and provide a financial buffer.
The expanded facility will be doubled in size and will include a new pool area as well as modernized change rooms. Once complete, this project will improve community services while meeting the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Standard V4.
“An inclusive design approach ensures Ravensong Aquatic Centre and the programming delivered in the facility will be welcoming, safe and accessible to all residents of the Oceanside area. Improved accessibility, reduced competition for pool time and expanded space for more diverse programming will help break down current barriers to participation,” stated Sean Wood, Chair of the RDN Oceanside Services Committee.
“The expansion of Ravensong Aquatic Centre will more than double the size of the existing facility and alleviate the significant demand for aquatic amenities for the residents of Parksville and throughout Oceanside. The changes will also ensure that it will be a more sustainable, environmentally friendly facility that is an accessible and inclusive recreational hub,” added Doug O’Brien, Mayor of Parksville.
On April 5, eligible electors from the City of Parksville, Town of Qualicum Beach and RDN Electoral Areas E, F, G and H will decide if the RDN can borrow up to $30 million to expand Ravensong Aquatic Centre.
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