We are excited to announce that a new pool slide will be appearing on deck soon. The pool will be closed beginning at 4:00 pm on Friday, July 25 to begin…
Accessibility Improvements In Sparwood Arena
The District of Sparwood is pleased to announce that it will be moving forward this summer with the installation of a new elevator in the Sparwood Recreation Centre Arena Foyer. This elevator will replace the aging, single-person open-air platform currently affixed to the north staircase.
As part of the project, the north staircase will be demolished and replaced by a modern lift installed flush against the foyer wall. This location offers easy access in a central location, while maintaining an attractive and compact design that won’t significantly impact the building footprint. The new lift will offer improved accessibility for residents and guests, supporting the movement of people and goods. It will be operated via a key-access system, mirroring the approach of the existing lift in the Arena which provides spectator access to the bleachers.
To accommodate the increased cost of the elevator installation, following a higher-than-anticipated RFP bid, Council has made the decision to defer the Community Hall Revitalization Project. The project scope and budget will be re-evaluated in the upcoming budget cycle. In the meantime, the Community Services team will complete minor in-house upgrades to the Hall and kitchen during the summer months.
During construction, the existing Italian Band mural will be impacted by the install of the elevator. This mural will be replicated and relocated onto the boardroom wall within the arena foyer, preserving this important piece of community history.
“Council remains committed to enhancing accessibility in our public spaces. The installation of this new elevator in the Arena Foyer is an important step toward ensuring that all residents, regardless of age or ability, can safely and comfortably access our facilities. While we’ve had to make the difficult decision to defer the larger Community Hall Revitalization Project to 2026 due to rising costs, we will continue to prioritize upgrades that support inclusion, safety, and community well-being," says Sparwood Mayor David Wilks.
Residents can expect some impacts to the access of the Arena Foyer and Hall at times throughout the construction period. Appropriate signage and public notices will be posted to minimize inconvenience.
The District of Sparwood would like to thank the Columbia Basin Trust’s Recreation and Community Accessibility for Children Program grant, which generously provided $50,000 towards this important project.
More information will be provided on the District of Sparwood website at www.sparwood.ca as it becomes available.
