WHAT WE ARE HEARING!

As is the case with any community project, there are questions, comments and concerns that come about.  We are very appreciative of all of the comments we hear, both positive and negative as it provides another perspective for us to consider to ensure that this Region is getting the best possible facility based on their needs.  This month, I am going to tackle some of the comments and questions that are frequently put forth to the Project Steering Committee, which is comprised of four Municipal representatives, four community volunteers and staff resources. 

1.      Is there going to be enough parking on the Exit 13 site?

By far, this is the number one question that we get asked, it is top of mind for the Project Steering Committee and rest assured we have been doing our due diligence on this component.   We have been working closely with the Department of Transportation & Infrastructure Renewal and are in the final phases of completing a traffic impact study which will help define on-site parking needs.  Project architects, Shore Tilbe Perkins Will in partnership with Nova Scotia based John K. Dobbs have created a preliminary schematic design that maximizes parking capacities and the Project Steering Committee are very pleased with the initial concept.  Will there be 1000 spaces? No, but we will ensure a realistic and adequate amount of parking is provided to meet the needs of the facility users and take into consideration large events, swim meets, hockey games, trade shows and all of the exciting activities that will take place in the facility. 

2.      Why are we building a competitive pool?

The need for a 25 meter, 8 lane pool has been identified through countless community meetings with the User Group Space Programming committee led by volunteer chair, Terry Hunt.  Furthermore, a 2005 study conducting by dmA Consultants confirmed that the demand for improved/increased aquatic facilities among the general public was high.  Given our central location in the province, it was important to offer an amenity that will accommodate the needs of provincial and regional level swim meets.  The proposed pool has been designed to meet competitive swimming needs in accordance to FINA Pool Standards and will offer ample seating to provide a comfortable viewing environment.  While the pools in Truro and Colchester have served us well over the last three decades, it was made very clear new and updated facilities were needed to accommodate the growing needs and expectations of the local swimming community and beyond.   

3.      When does construction begin and when is the Civic Centre expecting to open?

Construction on the 150,000sq. ft health and wellness facility will begin with site preparations this Spring.  It is expected that the facility will open in the fall of 2012. 

In closing, the people of Central Nova Scotia have recognized for years that new and updated facilities are needed in the Region to address an emerging relevance and focus on health and wellness, in addition to traditional and growing needs in sport and recreation.  We are well on our way to building a facility that will reach out beyond the offerings of a traditional sports and recreational facility and aim to meet the needs of all constituents. The civic centre will be more than just sport; it will be a social and economic nucleus within the Central Nova Region.

2 Responses to “WHAT WE ARE HEARING!”

1. Susan McLeod says:

   March 25, 2010 at 9:34 am

   I am very excited about this project. My family lives very close to the site and we have 2 small girls. We swim a lot. I was wondering if the design plan has a small children’s pool/water play area as I have seen in similar sites. -Thanks
2. Kathy Sutherland says:

   March 25, 2010 at 11:24 am

   Hi Susan,
   Thank you for sharing your excitment about the project! With regards to your question, yes, at this point our design does include a competitive 8 lane lap pool and a leisure pool! The leisure pool will create a wonderful environment for children to splash around and enjoy!
   Thank you!