The City of Fort St. John has developed an initial concept scope for a long-awaited, new aquatic facility.
City officials say that residents have consistently emphasized the need for a space that supports all ages and user groups, including families, seniors, recreational swimmers, and sports organizations.
Based on feedback about what amenities the public would like included, the city has released a list of proposed amenities for phase 1 of the concept:
• Lap and leisure pools with accessible entries • Hot pool, sauna, and steam room • Waterslide and splash pad • Indoor fieldhouse • Shared lobby and support spaces
The City is exploring a phased development model. The proposed Phase 2 would include:
• An outdoor turf field • Gymnasium spaces
Through the Let’s Talk Aquatics Facility engagement, the city is seeking input on several design considerations and amenity priorities. Residents can participate online using the Next Wave Survey until February 1. The public can attend pop-up engagement meeting or Coffee with Council sessions.
Over the coming months, the city will continue advancing the project by finalizing amenities based on public input. Detailed site plans and facility designs will also be developed.
City officials will be exploring funding sources, including grants, partnerships, cost-sharing, borrowing, and sponsorships. Cost estimates will be prepared that include assessing potential tax impacts.
Since 2018, options for a new aquatics facility have been explored that would replace the current North Peace Aquatics Centre.
In October 2025, the City signed a Letter of Intent with XJ Evergreen Estates Corp. for the preferred location for the new aquatics facility in the Parkwood Southlands development, across from the Naache Commons development and Margaret “Ma” Murray Community School.
