The District of Sparwood has created a Recreation Facility Advisory Committee (RFAC) to explore future options for recreation facilities in Sparwood. These options could include renovation or expansion of the Sparwood Leisure Centre and/or new facility development. The District and RFAC have retained the services of RC Strategies (a parks and recreation planning firm) and FaulknerBrowns Architects to support this study. The study will involve significant community engagement and research that will support the identification and analysis of potential options, costs, and next steps.
The study is being conducted with several key considerations in mind that will ultimately guide the identification of the potential move forward options:
The District of Sparwood has limited financial means which are further exacerbated by uncertain global dynamics and increasing construction costs. Some amenities and options may have high levels of demand but may not be viable to build and/or operate.
Potential amenities and spaces will need to be prioritized based on several factors, including existing levels of use, renewal need (current condition), multi-use / user capability, and costs. Those amenities and spaces that are deemed to provide the greatest cost-benefit to the community will be prioritized.
Potential funding partnerships, grant opportunities, and other non-recreational projects will impact future timelines and phasing for any future facility development. The study will provide the District with the necessary information to determine next steps and make decisions.
How to Get Involved
It is extremely important that we hear from the residents of Sparwood. Your input will help us better understand activity preferences, trends, and future needs for recreation facilities in Sparwood! Below is list of ways to participate.
Complete a coded Resident Survey - Opens June, 2025
In late May and early June 2025, postcards will be mailed to households in the District of Sparwood with unique access codes. These postcards will provide a QR code (and website url) to complete a Resident Survey. These coded surveys help the District ensure that residents are aware of the survey and that there aren’t special interests groups completing multiple surveys in hopes of skewing the survey results in favour of their interests. A public survey (no code required) will be made available around the same time for those that do not get a postcard or lose their postcard, as well as provide the opportunity for people who live outside of Sparwood to give their input.
Members of the Recreation Facility Advisory Committee will be hosting “pop ups” at several community events around Sparwood over the next few months. Please stop by and share your thoughts at these pop-ups.
