Over the past several months, lots of progress has taken place on the new təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre. If you pass by the site, you can really start to see the building taking shape and appreciate the size of the new facility.
Community Centre
The exterior structure of the community centre portion of the building is almost complete with some areas left open for deliveries. Trades are currently working on the mechanical and electrical rough-ins and the interior finishes.
Centre Lobby
One impressive feature of the main lobby is the engineered wood beams that span across the ceiling. Components for the lobby’s spiral staircase have been delivered and installed. The lobby is envisioned to be a public living room for New Westminster residents, with two front doors facing north and south creating connection between the inside and outside of the building.
Leisure and Competition Pools
The concrete structure for both pools is nearing completion. The steel structural walls for the competition pool are being installed and mechanical and electrical components are being installed in the basement. The cross-laminated timber (CLT) ceiling over painted steel beams gives a glimpse of what the finished space will feel like – bright, warm, and expansive.
Public Art
Miyiwts, a large-scale sculptural installation by James Harry is planned for the exterior near the south entrance of the building. Design for the artwork has been undergoing review to ensure approval for all of the elements required for fabrication, installation and coordination with the overall construction project. The City has been video-documenting the process with the artist to be able to communicate the meaning and significance behind the artist’s concept for current and future generations.
Canada Games Pool Demolition
This fall, demolition was completed on Canada Games Pool. The site is now being prepared for the construction of a people-centred public realm – landscaping, integrated storm-water management, urban reforestation, parking for vehicles and bikes, and reconstructed greenway access.
