Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre to get major facelift starting this spring

The Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre in Saskatoon will be getting a new look starting this spring.

“In a nutshell, we’re doing a major renovation and facelift,” said Troy LaFreniere, the director of facilities management for the City of Saskatoon.

LaFreniere noted the renovations for the 40-year-old building are to meet the standards and growing needs of the community.

Some upgrades include replacing the main basin of the 50-metre pool, and upgrading the roof and mechanical and ventilation systems.

A major motive of the renovation is improving inclusion such as gender-neutral changerooms, and universal accessibility in places like the front entrance and the dive tower, he added.

Once the facility reopens, it will have some new additions as well. Jody Hauta, the city’s recreation programs and facilities manager said that will include a new fitness room and multi-purpose rooms with natural sunlight for events like birthday parties.

“It will feel like a very open and airy atmosphere,” Hauta said.

There will also be a meeting room with deck access as well, he added.

“We also have lots of birthday parties, so with the direct access to the deck, it will be a great little spot,” Hauta said, adding the multi-purpose room will be utilized for lifeguard training and leadership courses.

The project is estimated to cost anywhere between $18 million and 24 million, LaFreniere said, noting about half of the funds will be provided through a federal funding grant and the rest through the city.

These artist’s renderings of the revamped facility were produced by the city.