HCMA Architecture + Design has been awarded the contract to provide architectural and engineering services for the Crystal Pool and Wellness Centre Replacement Project in Victoria.

HCMA will lead the next phase of planning for the new facility, which includes further community engagement to develop a detailed design and construction schedule.

The facility will include a 50m x 25m pool, universal and family change rooms, an expanded fitness area, multipurpose rooms for events and programs, in a welcoming community space with lots of natural light. The new universally-accessible pool and wellness centre is anticipated to increase visits by 35 per cent annually.

According to the city, the detailed design work being undertaken by HCMA is necessary to have the project shovel-ready following government grant announcements expected in 2018. Funding partnerships may eliminate the need for the city to hold a referendum to borrow funds for the project.

The proposed site for the new centre is next to the current facility in Central Park. The current Centre will remain open while the new facility is being constructed.

In February 2017, Victoria City Council voted unanimously to replace the nearly 50-year-old Crystal Pool complex with a new facility, approving a budget of $69.4 million for the project. The city has committed $10 million from its Building and Infrastructure Fund to the project, and is actively seeking to fund the balance from external sources including other levels of government.

HCMA has extensive experience in designing environmentally-sustainable, accessible and inclusive recreation facilities. The firm has completed more than $200 million worth of aquatic and recreation facilities including Vancouver’s Hillcrest Centre and Surrey’s Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre.