Airdrie accelerates SW Recreation Centre to open as one complete facility by 2030
Council approved single-phase construction for the $1.47 million facility, expected to save 6.4 to 8.6 per cent in costs.
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Airdrie City Council has approved an accelerated construction approach for the SW Recreation Centre, allowing the full facility — pools, aquatics, fitness centre, arenas, field house, gymnasium, and a newly added public indoor running track — to be delivered as one complete facility by 2030.
Under the previous three-phase approach, the facility would have opened in stages over several years, with aquatics and fitness opening first, followed by arenas, then the field house and gymnasium. By building in a single phase, the city reduces overall construction time, improves project efficiency, and saves an estimated 6.4 to 8.6 per cent in construction costs.
Mayor Heather Spearman framed the decision as a response to community demand. "Residents and sport groups have consistently told us there is strong demand for more recreation space," said Aimee Johnston, manager of recreation services. "Delivering the full facility sooner will help relieve pressure on existing programs and amenities, expand access and create more opportunities for people to participate in recreation across the community."
The city's Tax Stabilization Reserve will continue to smooth project costs, with annual tax impacts expected to remain at or below two per cent. The recent adoption of the Community Facilities Off-Site Levy strengthened the financial framework, ensuring that growth contributes to new infrastructure costs.
The project will move from schematic design into detailed design, with construction estimated to begin in 2027.
