Future of Fort St. John pool being discussed with release of design

The City of Fort St. John is one step closer to building a new pool after releasing its design concept for public consultation as part of a new engagement process to determine next steps.

Map showing the design and layout for the future pool (City of Fort St. John)

Developing a replacement for the North Peace Leisure Pool started in 2018 with the creation of a regional steering committee made up of Fort St. John, Peace River Regional District and the District of Taylor. The City took over lead of the project in 2025 and established an Aquatic Facility Working Group, and last year they signed a letter of intent on the preferred location in Parkwood Southlands according to the release.

An early concept for Fort St. John’s proposed aquatics facility has been released, which was shaped by years of public feedback and technical study. Community members have stressed the importance of a welcoming space designed for all ages and abilities, from families and seniors to recreational and competitive swimmers.

The City is asking residents to weigh in on design choices and amenity priorities through its Let’s Talk Aquatics Facility engagement, which will be open until February 1. Community feedback will help determine the concept, guide design decisions and ensure the facility responds to community priorities and feasibility factors including costs, the release said.

The City signed a letter of intent with XJ Evergreen Estates Corp. in 2025 for a preferred site in the Parkwood Southlands development across from the Naache Commons development and Margaret “Ma” Murray Community School. The location was selected for its accessibility, space for future growth, and ability to serve residents across the city they said.

The initial phase of the concept reflects community priorities says the City, including lap and leisure pools with accessible entries to a hot pool, sauna and steam room, a waterslide and splash pad, an indoor fieldhouse, and shared lobby and support areas. The City plans to roll out the aquatics facility in phases to manage costs, with phase 2 expected to include an outdoor turf field and additional gymnasium spaces.

In the coming months, the City will finalize amenities around community feedback, complete site and facility plans, research potential funding through grants, partnerships, cost sharing, borrowing and sponsorships. They will also work on developing cost estimates while determining potential tax impacts and hold a public assent process to ensure the community agrees with moving forward.