Renovation work on schedule for Rec Centre, includes numerous upgrades

Tim Brody - Editor

Renovations at the Recreation Centre in Sioux Lookout remain on schedule to be completed in time for the facility to re-open on August 9.
Meredith Culham, Manager of Recreation & Culture, shared, “We are updating the flooring in the gymnasium, weight room, and cardio room. Additionally, the gymnasium will have new wall padding installed and a fresh coat of paint applied throughout all three areas. The men’s changeroom is being completely renovated with new flooring and tile work. We are also implementing a fob system to control access, allowing members entry to specific areas while restricting certain areas to staff only. Our team is enhancing the scheduling software to optimize its use. We will be acquiring a few new treadmills, replacing some equipment in the weight room, and upgrading smaller equipment and associated storage.”
Culham said the upgrades had been identified in 2023 and early 2024 by staff and from public input.
“We are pleased that Council acknowledged and supported the need for these upgrades in the 2023 Capital Budget, however, due to supply issues was placed on hold until 2024.”
Culham added, “As of right now August 9th is still our anticipated re-opening date. We will have some packages for our current members outlining some of the changes they will encounter at their next visit. We are also hoping to host an Open House prior to our reopening to distribute these packages and showcase the changes.”
“Staff is looking forward to the re-opening and hope that members of the public enjoy the upgrades that were completed,” Culham stated.
A memorandum from Culham on the Rec Centre door advises that, “For all users with active memberships, please note we will be freezing your memberships during this closure.”
The Municipality advised it applied to the Ontario Trillium Fund for the renovations of the spaces and that the total costs of the improvements are roughly $300,000.
The Rec Centre has been closed for these renovations since June 10.