Cloverdale Fairgrounds survey draws 1,500-plus responses; residents want pool, heritage preservation

The Cloverdale Fairgrounds' future is taking shape through strong community input. As of July 1, a survey launched by the Cloverdale Business Improvement Association and Cloverdale Community Association had garnered more than 1,500 responses, with organizers hoping for another 500.

The results paint a clear picture: residents want heritage preserved, green space protected, and a new indoor swimming pool built. The survey revealed an "overwhelming cry" for the pool, which ranked as the top recreational desire by far. Residents also showed strong support for enhanced walking and cycling trails, covered outdoor courts for basketball and pickleball, and dog parks.

Large-scale commercial projects—a new hotel and conference centre, or a major trade show facility—ranked lowest on the public's priority list. Paul Orazietti, executive director of the BIA, emphasized that redevelopment has drawn passionate responses from local stakeholders, reflecting how much people value their town.

"Community preference strongly leaned toward establishing cohesive public spaces rather than heavy commercialization," Orazietti noted in an interim report. "The survey results reveal a passionate populace eager to see modern public amenities integrated with a strict preservation of Cloverdale's traditional identity."

The Surrey City Development Corporation, a real estate company separate from but owned by the City of Surrey, will oversee creating a vision for the Fairgrounds. The SCDC plans to interview residents, business owners, and meet with local groups including the Cloverdale District Chamber of Commerce, the BIA, the CCA, and the Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition Association.