Victoria, BC– The Capital Regional District (CRD) Board has adopted a loan authorization bylaw to secure capital funds totalling $3,150,000 to replace the Sooke Skate Park and upgrade the mechanical equipment at the SEAPARC Recreation Centre through an innovative heat recovery project. The bylaw was adopted after receiving elector assent through an Alternative Approval Process (AAP).
"We are excited to be taking the next steps forward in the replacement of the Sooke Skate Park and required mechanical equipment at SEAPARC with a heat recovery project," said Al Beddows, Chair of the Sooke and Electoral Area Parks and Recreation Commission (SEAPARC). "These projects further our commitment to provide affordable recreation opportunities for the residents of Sooke and the JDF Electoral Area and contribute to environmental sustainability."
The Sooke Skate Park has reached the end of its usable life and has been closed to the public due to safety concerns. A concept design for the new skate park was completed in 2024 following a public consultation process. With the loan authorization bylaw approved, the next steps will involve technical design, demolition, and construction of a modern skate park that meets the community's needs. This project is scheduled for completion later in 2025.
The SEAPARC Recreation Centre, identified as the second largest emitter of greenhouse gas within CRD facilities, accounts for 16% of the CRD’s facility greenhouse gas emissions. The heat recovery project is one of the emission reduction projects identified in SEAPARC’s 20-year capital plan to help meet the corporate climate targets of the CRD and the District of Sooke. This project will replace several mechanical components that have reached the end of their life, enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability. Detailed design is scheduled for 2025 and project implementation for 2026.
To learn more about the Sooke Skate Park renewal, please visit Sooke Skate Park Concept Design.
The CRD delivers regional, sub-regional and local services to 13 municipalities and three electoral areas on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Governed by a 24-member Board of Directors, the CRD works collaboratively with First Nations and government partners to enable sustainable growth, foster community well-being, and develop cost-effective infrastructure while continuing to provide core services to residents throughout the region. Visit us online at www.crd.ca.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andy Orr, Senior Manager
CRD Corporate Communications
Tel: 250.360.3229
Cell: 250.216.5492
