First Phase of Facilities For The Future Survey Ends Sept 21
Courtesy of the City of Medicine Hat
URGENT CALL TO HATTERS: Shape the Future of Southside Recreation – Final Days to Have Your Say on this phase!
MEDICINE HAT – Whether you are in support this idea or not, time is running out for the survey on the first part of this proposed project.
The City of Medicine Hat is making a final plea to residents to voice their opinions on two major proposed recreational projects: a new destination outdoor pool and the development of sports fields at Brier Run. With the critical public engagement survey closing in mere days, on Saturday, September 21, 2025, time is running out for Hatters to influence these generational decisions.
This push for feedback is the next crucial step in a years-long process that began with your input. In 2022, residents made it clear that addressing aging recreation facilities was a top priority. This led to the Facilities for the Future plan and, ultimately, became a strategic priority for City Council: to develop a multi-faceted recreation complex on the south side of the community.
Now, the City is in the site identification phase for a potential outdoor aquatics centre, which could be paired with a future recreation centre. Simultaneously, plans are advancing for new sports fields at Brier Run to alleviate pressure on existing facilities and support a growing area.
“We are excited to embark on this significant public engagement program to ensure Hatters are part of the decision-making process,” said a city official. “Council needs to hear from the community directly to make well-informed choices on these significant initiatives that will impact our city for decades to come.”
What’s at Stake?
Phase 1 of the proposed project includes:
A Destination Outdoor Pool: A potential site on 13 Avenue S.E. has been identified, large enough for a future rec centre. The facility could feature waterslides, a lazy river, spray decks, and concessions, helping to replace the lost outdoor pools at Heald and Heights.
Brier Run Sports Fields: New fields for sports like soccer, rugby, cricket, and baseball, complete with concessions, washrooms, and supporting amenities like trails and playgrounds.
The estimated cost for both projects is between $40M and $55M. Administration has presented a worst-case scenario of a 3.5% to 5% tax increase to fund them without third-party funding. However, if the project has strong community support, the City will aggressively pursue grants and partnerships to offset these costs.
Your Voice is Critical – The Clock is Ticking
The City wants to know what you think about the proposed locations, amenities, and, most importantly, the funding. Your feedback will directly answer key questions:
Is there community support for investing in these projects?
Do the proposed locations make sense?
What amenities are absolute must-haves?
Should Council move forward?
This is your final chance to weigh in on this phase of the project. The survey results will be compiled and presented directly to City Council, who will use the data to decide the future of these projects.
Don’t miss this opportunity. The survey closes this Saturday, September 21.
How to Get Involved Immediately:
TAKE THE SURVEY NOW: Complete the brief online survey before the September 21 deadline.
Survey LinkSIGN UP: Join the project contact list to receive updates and be entered to win passes to the Big Marble Go Centre.
The future of recreation in Medicine Hat is in your hands. Make sure your voice is heard before it’s too late.
For more information, concepts, and to take the survey, visit the City’s official project page.
