While replacing a skate park and heating equipment are seldom on the same to-do list, a new Capital Regional District loan is making both these projects possible.
Following the conclusion of an Alternate Approval Process (AAP) conducted by the CRD, the organization has adopted authorization to take out a loan totalling $3,150,000 to replace the Sooke Skate Park. The loan will also allow the CRD to make mechanical equipment upgrades to SEAPARC Recreation Centre as part of an "innovative heat recovery project."
The skate park was closed to the public in 2024 due to safety concerns after it was determined to have reached the end of its usable life. New concept designs for the new skate park were completed in 2024, following a public consultation.
"We are excited to be taking the next steps forward in the replacement of the Sooke Skate Park and required mechanical equipment at SEAPARC," said Al Beddows, chair of the Sooke and Electoral Area Parks and Recreation Commission (SEAPARC).
"These projects further our commitment to provide affordable recreation opportunities for the residents of Sooke and the JDF Electoral Area and contribute to environmental sustainability."
Now that a loan is approved, the next step will involve technical design, demolition and construction of a modern skate park that "meets the community's needs," says the CRD. The project is scheduled for completion later in 2025.
Meanwhile, Melanie Alsdorf, senior manager at SEAPARC Recreation Centre, said they are working with Polar Engineering to develop the project.
"The overall idea is that we look to use excess heat generated from the arena refrigeration plant to heat other areas of the facility, such as the pools, hot tub and domestic hot water," Alsdorf told the Sooke News Mirror last year.
"This would translate to operational savings on fuel as well as water, which is required to cool the refrigeration plant."
SEAPARC Recreation Centre has been identified as the second largest emitter of greenhouse gas within CRD facilities, accounting for 16 per cent of its total emissions. The project is one of several projects identified in SEAPARC's 20-year capital plan to meet corporate climate targets outlined by themselves and the District of Sooke. Detailed design of the project is scheduled for 2025 to be implemented in 2026.
