Federal funds have been committed to potentially lessen the financial blow on local taxpayers to expand Ravensong Aquatic Centre. (RDN)

By NanaimoNewsNOW staff

federal grant

Feds supply funding for proposed Ravensong Aquatic Centre expansion

Mar 19, 2025 | 12:04 PM

QUALICUM BEACH — With a referendum fast approaching to upgrade Oceanside’s only public pool facility, a substantial grant would help absorb some costs.

On Wednesday, March 19 the Regional District of Nanaimo announced a $7 million federal government grant had been approved for the Ravensong Aquatic Centre (RAC) project under the Canada Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.

“The federal contribution will reduce the RDN’s reliance on borrowing the full amount of the proposed $30 million and provide a financial buffer during a shifting economic period,” noted an RDN news release.

The RDN states the proposed expanded RAC would see greenhouse gas emissions reduced by about 94 per cent, and energy demand will be 25 per cent more efficient than standards set out by the National Energy Code for Buildings.

Accessibility components of a potentially enhanced RAC include universal change room, washroom and shower facilities, as well as two multi-purpose rooms offering diverse programs for vulnerable and equity-seeking groups, the RDN noted.

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The proposed project features doubling the size of the RAC, including a new four lane, 25 metre pool for fitness and competition, leisure pool with play features, lazy river feature, improved steam room and sauna, new change rooms, lobby with seating/pool viewing, and multipurpose rooms.

Preparations for an anticipated future fitness centre would be also be included in this project.

As of last fall, the RDN estimated the proposed RAC expansion project at $36.4 million.

On Saturday April 5, eligible voters in the Town of Qualicum Beach, City of Parksville and electoral areas E,F,G and H will have their say on general referendum day.

Advance voting takes place on March 26 and April 2, while mail-in ballots can be requested until April 3.

Referendum results are expected on the afternoon of Wednesday, April 9, according to the RDN.

Detailed information on the proposed RAC expansion proposal is available on the RDN’s Get Involved page linked here.

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