CARLETON PLACE — Carleton Place is moving closer to a major decision on a new recreation facility, but councillors made it clear this week they want the public involved early in the process.
At the April 21 committee of the whole meeting, property and projects manager Ross Rankin presented updated concepts for the recreation concept plan, a project identified in the town’s 2022 to 2026 strategic plan. The plan explores options for a new facility that could include aquatic features, gymnasiums and flexible community space to accommodate future growth.
Rankin outlined two approaches: a previously considered addition to the existing arena, estimated between $65 million and $85 million, and a standalone modular-style facility with a lower projected cost. The modular concept, developed with external partners, is currently estimated at about $39 million and would include two pools, three full-sized gymnasiums, an indoor walking track, multipurpose rooms, a theatre and spectator seating.
The proposed aquatic features include an eight-lane, 25-metre pool and a separate learn-to-swim pool with accessible elements such as ramp or “beach” entry.
“The gymnasium portion has three gymnasiums. They’re full-sized gymnasiums, with bleachers at one end and a stage at the other end that can be used for activities and concerts and plays,” Rankin said, noting the modular structure could be built more quickly than a traditional facility, potentially within about one year, depending on final design and approvals.
“I’m glad you said a year because that’s an important distinction,” said Coun. Sarah Cavanagh. “Being able to use the facility very quickly is a good turnaround.”
The project is being developed alongside a five-year business plan by Aquatic Associates, expected by the end of April, which will help define programming needs and operational considerations. Staff are also working toward being shovel-ready to improve eligibility for provincial funding through the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund.
The need for a new facility is tied in part to the condition of the existing Carleton Place pool. A 2024 engineering report identified about $3.8 million in required repairs and a potential 12- to 14-month shutdown. Staff said the aging facility has experienced repeated closures in recent months and could face significant failure within the next year without major upgrades.
Council members discussed both the scope of the project and next steps, approving a motion to apply for provincial funding.
“I’m going to support the motion that we move forward and have that public open house, but I’d like to see a broader questioning of people,” said Coun. Jeff Atkinson. “I’d like to really fire up their imaginations for how the space could be used, specifically the stage, and what kind of features would need to be included.”
Cavanagh said public input will play a key role in shaping the final design.
“It’s early in terms of our final design, and what we include will be influenced by what the public wants to see,” she said. “It’s really hard to cost things out when we don’t know what people are looking for.”
A second motion to proceed with public consultation also carried, following discussion about timing and approach.
“I also want to spread this far and wide through every means that we have,” said Mayor Toby Randell. “You want to get as many people commenting about this as possible because it is going to affect everybody tax-wise for decades.”
Suggestions included gathering feedback on programming needs, potential uses of surrounding lands and future plans for the existing pool site.
Rankin said a public meeting is being targeted for May, with results expected to return to committee of the whole by late June for further discussion and direction.
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