A long awaited goal will be realized on Sat., Jan. 26 when the Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre opens its doors.
"This facility provides is a great new opportunity for the residents of Vanderhoof and the Nechako Valley," Vanderhoof Mayor Gerry Thiessen said.
"The hard work of many residents over a period of 25 years as well as the great financial support of government, neighbouring communities, businesses and individuals, have made our pool a reality. "Our town has been given a new avenue of recreation which will be very positive in attracting and retaining residents to our valley."
Constructed at a cost of $12 million, the facility has a six-lane 25-metre lap pool, a 1,500 square-foot leisure pool and a 35-person hot tub, along with a sauna and aquatic climbing wall. All pools are equipped with ramp entry.
Change rooms include a large universal change area with four family shower and change stalls, three dry change stalls and a fully accessible change room/washroom equipped with an overhead lift.
There are also women's and men's change rooms, which were designed with accessibility in mind.
The YMCA of Northern B.C. will manage the pool.
"I want to acknowledge the tremendous efforts of the District of Vanderhoof, Mayor and Council, for building this amazing facility which I have no doubt will be a place for so many community members to get healthy and active, learn safety in the water while having so much fun," said YMCA-NBC CEO Amanda Alexander.
Greyback Construction was the General Contractor on the project, and the architectural designed was provided by Carscadden Architects.
The federal government contributed $6 million to the project, while a $3 million loan, $1.4 million in gas tax funds, $1 million from the Vanderhoof Community Forest and $600,000 raised by the community covers the rest.
The project won 77 per cent support when a referendum was held in February 2013.
An opening ceremony is set for 10:30 a.m. on the day.