West Calgary YMCA-library hybrid moves into design phase
A 60,000-square-foot facility on Broadcast Ave SW will feature a 25-metre pool, gymnasium, track, and 9,000 sq ft of library space, pending $30M from each level of government.
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Calgary's western communities are getting a major new recreation and learning hub — if funding comes through.
The YMCA Calgary and Calgary Public Library have proposed a joint 60,000-square-foot facility on the corner of Broadcast Ave SW and 78 Street SW. City council has approved initial funding for planning and design work, with GEC Architecture leading the project's execution.
The facility will include a seven-lane, 25-metre pool, leisure pool, gymnasium, running track, fitness studios, and multi-purpose rooms. The library component will offer 9,000 square feet of space with children's areas, reading zones, and meeting rooms, plus over 200 underground parking spaces.
Shannon Doram, president and CEO of YMCA Calgary, said the area is severely under-served for recreation. "We're looking for about $30 million from each order of government, and if we are able to gather that support, we hope to be in the ground late next year with completion sometime at the end of 2029 or early 2030."
Karla Gibson, president of the West Springs/Cougar Ridge Community Association, called the facility "much needed" for Calgary's rapidly growing west side. "This will provide residents with opportunities for recreation, learning, connection and community gathering."
YMCA Calgary has had early talks with municipal, provincial, and federal governments, all described as supportive. The City recently approved its GamePlan recreation strategy aimed at boosting coverage across the city. Once detailed design is completed, a precise dollar figure will be available.