Construction on Regina’s new indoor aquatics facility to start next month

WATCH: On Tuesday, a sod turning ceremony was held for Regina’s new indoor aquatics facility, with construction to begin next month. Mick Favel reports.

Construction on Regina’s new indoor aquatics facility will officially begin next month.

A sod turning ceremony was held by the City of Regina on Tuesday with officials highlighting the amenities the facility will provide.

“The new aquatic centre will provide room for health and wellness, gathering and socializing, and playing and competing,” Minister of Government Relations Eric Schmalz said.

Specifically, the facility will feature two 50 metres pools designed to host national amenities, a wave pool, waterslides, dryland training spaces, community spaces, an outdoor play structure and spray pad, according to the City of Regina.

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The facility, which will be located at the Sportplex at 1717 Elphinstone Street, was approved as a project to replace the aging Lawson Aquatic Centre.

Regina Mayor Chad Bachynski shared his sentiments about the project, emphasizing that it’s about more than just recreation.

“We’re thrilled for this groundbreaking moment,” he said in the announcement. “It’s about accessibility, equity and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. It’s a project years in the making that will benefit Regina for generations to come.”

In addition, a geothermal heating facility will be constructed to heat the new aquatics centre.

The facility is set to be open in 2029, with the City of Regina to provide updates on the project on its website.

For the new heating system to be installed, drilling will need to be done to reach 2,200 metres into the ground to access heated water.

• Over $128M dedicated for geothermal aquatics centre in Regina meant to replace Lawson

This type of heating is new in Canada and has been used in Europe.

Marj Walton is the executive director of Swim Saskatchewan. She said the new facility brings opportunities to host national and international swimming competitions.

“Hopefully it will draw spectators and get youth engaged and excited to [be] a part of aquatic sports,” she said.

The project is estimated to cost $313.6 million, with funding provided by both federal and provincial governments through the Investment Canada Act.