A concept drawing of what a potential Brier Run sports-field complex could look like.--SUPPLIED IMAGE
The City of Medicine Hat is thrilled to kick off engagement for the potential development of a south side destination outdoor pool in addition to construction of sports fields in Brier Run. It’s been a multi-year journey to get to this exciting point.
So, how did we get here?
During thorough public engagement for our Parks and Recreation Master Plan in 2022, Hatters made their stance on the value of recreational opportunities crystal clear. Residents showed a strong interest in developing a plan to address aging recreation facilities, which included eventual replacement.
This led to city council supporting the creating of the Facilities for the Future plan in 2023, which took a long-term view of aging recreation facilities in the community.
Then, in 2024, city council finalized priorities for administration to focus on for the duration of their elected term, including actioning recreation and wellness opportunities with a specific focus on the south side of the community.
City council had reviewed potential options and the financial impact of constructing a recreation facility on the south side of the community in 2025. Then, last month, council endorsed administration to begin engagement for the development of an outdoor pool and the construction of sports fields in Brier Run.
The city is now in the site identification phase for a potential destination outdoor pool experience, which could be paired with a potential new recreation centre on the same site in the future. The construction of Brier Run sports fields builds on the Brier Run Area Structure Plan, which identifies a new mixed-use growth area around the Big Marble Go Centre.
How can you be involved?
We are eager to embark on this public and stakeholder engagement program that will ensure you are part of the decision-making process. It is important to hear from a broad range of perspectives within the community so that residents’ needs are fairly represented. Your feedback allows council to make well-informed decisions on these significant initiatives.
The first of many opportunities for you to provide feedback comes in the form of an online survey. This survey focuses specifically on the first phase of the whole Facilities for the Future initiative, including the Brier Run sports fields and the outdoor destination pool projects. Residents can find the survey and learn more about the Facilities for the Future initiative by visiting the project page on Shape Your City Medicine Hat. The survey and project page will be live to the public on Friday, September 12 at: medicinehat.ca/FFF
City staff also will welcome the opportunity to meet with residents face-to-face and will be attending several public events in the coming weeks to promote the online survey.
There will also be two dedicated meet-and-greet opportunities with project team members on Wednesday, Sept. 17. The first will be held from 2-4 p.m. at the Medicine Hat Public Library, and the second runs from 6-8 p.m. at the Big Marble Go Centre.
At the same time, the city will engage with other levels of government and other third parties to seek potential financial partnerships to help build and operate these facilities.
Coming out of the first round of engagement, we hope to better understand the public’s view on the city making a financial commitment to these projects, and confirmation that the sites selected for these new amenities are the most ideal. The public’s perspectives will help guide council’s decisions related to these projects.
Shaping the future, together.
This is more than just a project – it’s a reflection of our community’s values, dreams, and collective voice, and your input matters. The journey ahead is one we take together, and every step brings us closer to creating spaces that serve, inspire, and unite us all. Let’s build something remarkable – together.
James Will is director of parks and recreation for the City of Medicine Hat
