There were some “hiccups” along the way in building it, but in the end, the Minoru Centre for Active Living has won accolades from recreation experts on its design.
The facility, which houses an aquatic centre and a seniors centre, received the provincial Facility Excellence Award for projects over $3 million from the BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA).
On accepting the award at Monday’s city council meeting, Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie praised the facility despite the “hiccups” along the way, including the delayed opening.
Brodie said he was “honoured” to receive the award.
“The Minoru Centre for Active Living is an outstanding example of how working with our community can create a truly exceptional, functional and successful facility,” Brodie said in a press release.
The seniors centre portion opened in 2020, about two years later than first expected.
The aquatic centre’s opening, however, was further delayed on discovery of significant structural deficiencies – including a crack in a lap pool – as well as leaking into the machine room below the pools.
The pools eventually opened more than a year later.
The builder, Stuart Olson, is currently suing the City of Richmond for $7 million, complaining about the city causing delays by changing the design. The city countered saying Stuart Olson was paid $6 million to manage the project.
None of these claims have been proven in court.
The lawsuit is scheduled for trial in September 2024.
The annual RCRPA award recognizes an outstanding facility design or redesign that reflects community culture, innovation and community need.
