The Municipality of Jasper celebrated the re-opening of the Jasper Activity Centre last week, marking a milestone for the community’s recreation facilities.
Municipal councillor Kathleen Waxer had the honour of cutting the ribbon on the newly-renovated Jasper Activity Centre, Arena and Fitness & Aquatic Centre.
“Today is a celebration of more than just the completion of an important municipal project—it’s a testament to the strength, patience, and resilience of our community,” Waxer said.
The $20.4 million renovation was made possible through $3.05 million in provincial funding, $3.66 million in federal funding, and additional municipal investment.
Waxer said the greatest gift granted was residents’ patience and cooperation, as construction was put on hold after the July 22, 2024 evacuation due to wildfire.
“Individual users and user groups who adjusted schedules, programs, and expectations; tenants like the seniors, the Curling Club, the Gymnastics Club, and others, who made accommodations to allow the work to proceed; Tourism Jasper and its supporters, who swiftly made temporary dressing rooms available so ice activities could continue…your patience and support have made this project a success,” Waxer said.
The journey to Wednesday’s grand reopening began in 2019, when the Municipality of Jasper secured provincial and federal grants for major renovations. After years of planning, design approvals, and funding adjustments, construction officially began on July 17, 2023.
CAO Bill Given credited municipal staff for their dedication in keeping the facility open to users throughout the course of construction. He also acknowledged the work of project consultants and contractors, including WSP, GEC Architecture, and Carlson Construction, for delivering the project on budget.
Following the wildfire delays, work resumed in September, leading to a series of phased facility re-openings. The arena re-opened on December 8; the Bonhomme Street entrance and arena change rooms re-opened on December 18; and the aquatic centre re-opened on December 26.
Waxer said the project enhances accessibility, sustainability, and community well-being.
The newly renovated facilities feature:
• Expanded accessibility, including a new elevator, gender-inclusive change rooms, and accessible entrances;
• Upgraded mechanical and electrical systems to improve efficiency and sustainability;
• Enhanced community spaces, including modernized change rooms, a revitalized lobby areas, and new arena dressing rooms.
“These spaces belong to you, and we invite you to use them fully, just as they were intended,” Waxer said.
