It appears unlikely that Squamish will host the B.C. Summer Games in the foreseeable future, but it might host the B.C. Seniors Games if challenges with recreational infrastructure and accommodation can be overcome.
In a report presented to council on Sept. 4 on prospects for Squamish to host the four-day, youth-centered B.C. Summer Games and their potential $2.6 million economic impact, recreation services manager Tim Hoskin said Squamish does not have the necessary recreation infrastructure for the youth-focussed summer games.
The most expensive deficiency is a second pool to host the diving competition, which would come with a price tag of between $1 and $2 million. Brennan Park's diving area is not deep enough, nor the ceiling high enough, to do the job, he said.
Hosting the B.C. Seniors Games has about the same economic impact and is a bit more feasible because while there are "hurdles" to overcome as far as recreation infrastructure goes, the requirements are more flexible, Hoskin said. As well, Squamish does not have enough overnight accommodation to host the Seniors Games and would need to partner with Whistler or West Vancouver on that front, he said.
The application deadline to host the 2015 or 2016 Seniors Games is next January. Council directed Hoskin to continue exploring the idea.
