Fredericton City Council has approved a $15-million deep retrofit of the Fredericton Indoor Pool.

The project will address major infrastructure needs at the 36-year-old facility. It will also improve energy efficiency and accessibility, and support better aquatic programming.

The Government of Canada will provide up to $6 million through the Direct Delivery stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund. The City of Fredericton will fund the remaining $9 million through municipal borrowing.

“We are committed to a long-term, responsible approach to aquatics that meets the needs of our growing community,” says Mayor Steve Hicks. “This means investing in existing facilities now while continuing to pursue funding for a new facility.”

Council approved the project at its August 24 meeting. The city has targeted April 2028 for construction to begin.

Officials will use the planning period to consult with aquatics user groups. They will also identify alternative programming options, procure specialized equipment, and select vendors.

HVAC and accesibility upgrades

The pool will be closed to the public during construction, which is expected to take 12 to 18 months.

The retrofit will replace the facility’s 36-year-old HVAC systems. It will also modernize building automation, controls, and electrical systems.

The project will install energy- and water-efficient pumps, motors, and fixtures. Crews will replace and renew pool and deck surfaces, windows, and doors, as required.

The work will improve accessibility with a wheelchair-accessible elevator. It will also renew fire detection and suppression systems.

The project will add a classroom for teaching and community use. Additional storage will support programming and operations.

Separately, the city council agreed to cost-share $115,000 with the University of New Brunswick for repairs at the Sir Max Aitken Pool. The city is also continuing to seek funding and a partner for a new aquatic facility in Fredericton.