Vancouver Park Board Proposes $1B Plan to Upgrade Aging Recreation Facilities

The Vancouver Park Board is preparing to introduce a motion calling for a major investment — potentially exceeding $1 billion — to repair and upgrade the city’s aging recreation facilities.

The proposal is being brought forward by board chair Tom Digby and will be discussed at a special public meeting scheduled for April 7.

Digby said the exact funding request is still being finalized, but emphasized that the scale of infrastructure needs across Vancouver’s park system is significant.

“There is definitely more than $1 billion worth of capital improvements that the park system and recreation centres could use,” he said.

Widespread infrastructure concerns

A 2024 report from Vancouver’s auditor general highlighted the extent of the issue, finding that 72 per cent of the city’s recreation facilities — including community centres, pools and indoor rinks — are in poor or very poor condition.

The report, led by Mike Macdonell, also identified an annual infrastructure deficit of approximately $33 million.

It concluded that facilities were not being effectively managed and that there was limited co-ordination between city departments responsible for maintenance and upgrades.

Calls to address ‘historic underfunding’

Former park board chair Aaron Jasper said the proposed investment reflects years of underfunding.

“For far too long, the City of Vancouver has neglected to properly maintain our cherished facilities,” he said. “Residents have been shortchanged.”

Jasper warned that without significant investment, some facilities could face closure in the coming years.

“The choice is stark — invest now or risk losing access to these community spaces,” he said.

Strategic planning and partnerships

Current commissioner Scott Jensen described the $1-billion figure as “aspirational,” but said it helps guide long-term planning, including the city’s upcoming 2027–2030 capital plan.

He added that the board is exploring partnerships with private and community organizations to help fund upgrades and reduce the burden on taxpayers.

One potential example is a proposed partnership involving the Vancouver Canucks, which could see a new training facility developed at the aging Britannia community centre site in East Vancouver.

Digby said such partnerships could help move projects forward that might otherwise be delayed or cancelled.

Major projects on the horizon

Several significant upgrades are expected to be part of future discussions, including:

• Renewal of the aging Kitsilano outdoor pool

• Construction of a new 50-metre indoor pool

• Upgrades or replacements for aging community centres and ice rinks

The Park Board’s role is to propose and advocate for funding, but final decisions on capital spending rest with Vancouver city council.

The finalized motion is expected to be released ahead of the April 7 meeting, where the public will have an opportunity to provide input.