Next week, Squamish’s aquatic centre’s doors will close as it undergoes approximately $850,000 worth of upgrades.
The Squamish-Lillooet Regional District has budgeted $1 million for the energy and utility cost saving work, which is scheduled to be completed by Dec. 22. The pool deck air handling unit, which heats, cools and dehumidifies the pool deck, as well as the pool’s boilers, are being replaced.
The upgrades are anticipated to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 60 tonnes per year, stated a press release from District of Squamish officials. Utility bills are expected to drop by $10,000 per year and municipal staff will apply for an approximate $45,000 Fortis Gas rebate.
“This is a major project that will realize significant results,” Mayor Rob Kirkham stated in the release. “The upgrades will provide for a much more enjoyable user experience, while the energy savings are impressive.”
Lighting will also be updated. The centre’s 20-year-old metal halide lights will be changed to new T5 technology strip lights. The move will reduce GHG emissions by approximately half a tonne per year, the release noted. Maintenance costs will also drop, as the light bulbs will only need to be replaced every 10 years versus every two.
