The Strathcona Regional District has approved plans to add a third sheet of ice at the Strathcona Gardens Recreation Complex as part of the REC-REATE project.

The decision follows community feedback on the original Phase Two plans.

Working with the City of Campbell River, the Strathcona Gardens Commission developed a revised design that adds the new arena while staying within the project's approved budget and existing borrowing authority.

The third ice sheet will be built in the current Strathcona Gardens parking lot and is expected to increase capacity for public skating, tournaments, and community events.

Construction will be completed in phases, allowing both existing arenas to remain open throughout the project.

The expansion also includes about 500 parking spaces between the recreation complex and nearby Pinecrest Park, connected by a covered and well-lit pedestrian walkway.

Detailed design work will begin next, with the project expected to be completed in the spring of 2029.

Meanwhile, the City of Campbell River is also proposing a second artificial turf field near Robron School to replace the existing soccer field at Pinecrest Park.

The proposal is awaiting approval from School District 72, with the City saying it remains committed to the project and will keep the funding in place while awaiting a decision.

To learn more, visit City of Campbell River.