Vernon's Active Living Centre Project Remains "On Schedule and On Budget"

February 14, 2026 - Construction of the City of Vernon's new Active Living Centre (ALC) is progressing steadily and remains on track for a fall 2026 opening, according to project director Doug Ross.

Ross provided the update to council during the regular meeting on February 9, 2026, stating that with about eight months left in the construction phase, the design and construction team is "currently on target to deliver the project on time and on budget."

Recent milestones include completed concrete work for the pools and decks, tile installation in pool and change room areas, interior framing advances, skylight installation, ongoing exterior glazing and metal siding, and full connections for pool filtration, main water service, and storm sewers.

In mid-2025, the project shifted from a base target cost of just over $121 million to a final target cost of $119,826,012, resulting in savings of more than $1.2 million.

Some of these funds were used for added enhancements, such as improved pool lighting, supplemental gymnasium heating, and pool amenities like a scoreboard and climbing wall.

The facility is designed with strong accessibility features, targeting Rick Hansen Foundation Gold Level Certification.

Key elements include ramp and zero-entry pool access, PoolPod lifts, wheelchair-compatible fitness equipment (30% of machines), automatic doors, braille/tactile signage, a sensory room, and barrier-free changerooms and washrooms.

The project also involves collaboration with the Okanagan Indian Band to incorporate syilx cultural elements, including potential nsyilxcen language signage and a facility name recommendation from OKIB elders.

Upcoming work in early 2026 focuses on air source heat pumps, exterior finishes, pool system tie-ins, interior partitions, and change room tiling.

Public updates are planned for March events, including an infrastructure open house on March 2.

Residents can monitor progress via the live construction webcam at vernonalc.ca.

When complete the ALC will feature a 50-metre pool, leisure pool, double gymnasium, fitness centre, walking track, and inclusive programming spaces.