Wedgewood Park set for $32M replacement

Residents of the east end of St. John's are getting a look at a proposed recreation complex that would replace the aging facility in the Wedgewood Park neighbourhood.

A meeting on Thursday night unveiled plans for the $32-million proposal, which if built will be three times as large as the overcrowded centre in Wedgewood Park.

"The facilities just aren't suitable to deliver the programs the residents require," said Coun. Danny Breen, who represents Ward 1 on city council.

The proposed facility includes two pools, including a six-lane, 25-metre lap pool and a separate pool for people with physical disabilities.

Cathy Dornan, president of the St. John's Legends swim club, said the new design will help meet public demand for fitness.

"We have over 250 people in our program right now, ages 8-18," she said at Thursday night's meeting. "We think that our program is very consistent with the mandate of the city, which is healthy living and I think this is progress. I think it's the right direction."

The existing rec centre has a small gym that can only accommodate sports for young children, and a city memo describes the changes rooms as undersized and antiquated. As well, staff must work in a trailer across the parking lot to do their administrative work.

The proposed complex will have a much more significant footprint, and will also be twice as high as the existing complex.

Some residents expressed concern about increased traffic in the Wedgewood Park area, which is off Torbay Road.

City officials will be reviewing feedback to the proposal over the next month.