The City of Fort St. John has released two feasibility studies that have helped inform planning for the proposed new aquatic facility and indoor fieldhouse. The reports provide technical analysis, community engagement findings, facility programming recommendations, site considerations, and preliminary cost information, offering residents an opportunity to review the information that has guided the project to date.
The first study, completed in 2023 through a partnership between the Peace River Regional District, the City of Fort St. John, and the District of Taylor, examined options for replacing the aging North Peace Leisure Pool. The report included extensive public engagement, demand analysis, site evaluations, and recommendations for amenities such as a leisure pool, waterslide, hot pool, sauna and steam rooms, additional indoor recreation space, and an indoor fieldhouse.
The second study, completed in 2026, was commissioned by the City of Fort St. John after the City assumed responsibility for advancing the project independently. Building on earlier work, the report reflects updated community engagement, technical analysis, site planning, and concept design work for a proposed facility at the Parkwood Southlands development. The concept includes an eight-lane competitive pool, a warm-water pool, a leisure pool with a lazy river and a waterslide, wellness amenities, an indoor fieldhouse, multi-purpose spaces, and spectator viewing areas. The study also provides a preliminary project cost estimate and outlines potential funding scenarios.
“These studies represent years of research, community engagement, and technical analysis related to replacing the North Peace Leisure Pool,” said Milo MacDonald, Chief Administrative Officer. “By making these reports publicly available, we are providing residents with the information that has informed the proposed facility, including how recreation needs, site considerations, programming, and costs have been evaluated throughout the planning process.”
The City encourages residents to review the reports alongside other project information available through the New Aquatic Facility project page. The studies are intended to provide background information and context as the project continues through design refinement, public engagement, and the upcoming Aquatic Facility Referendum.
The feasibility studies can be accessed through the Let’s Talk Aquatic Facility project page.