Maple Ridge is launching a study to explore the feasibility of locating a new multi-use recreational facility with an indoor pool and ice arena in the Hammond neighbourhood.
Hammond Community Park has been identified as the preferred site for the City’s second indoor pool and fifth ice sheet – identified as priorities in the Parks, Recreation and Culture (PRC) Master Plan adopted in February. The park is currently home to Hammond Community Centre and outdoor pool, both at the end of their functional lifespans, as well as Hammond Stadium and Larry Walker fields.
The City will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) on September 13 for a consultant team to complete a feasibility study that includes a site analysis, potential uses, design concepts and extensive public engagement.
“One of the things Council heard on the campaign trail last year and continues to hear is the need for more recreation facilities,” Mayor Dan Ruimy said. “Delivering on this is a key priority for Council and we have asked staff for solutions that will meet the current and future needs of our fast-growing community. This study is an important, and necessary first step, to get shovels in the ground and ensure that the investments we make deliver the maximum benefits for our residents.”
Why Hammond
In recent months, City staff reviewed potential private and public locations around the community for a new aquatics and arena facility. The 13-acre Hammond Community Park met all the requirements – sufficient space, fully serviced site, in a developed area with a growing population, accessible by transit and near a major transportation route. It’s also owned by the City, eliminating the cost of buying land to deliver the project.
In addition, Hammond Community Centre is earmarked for accessibility and building upgrades, and the outdoor pool is nearing the end of its service life. The City approved $2.5 million to renovate the centre in 2018 but paused this work to consider broader long-term community needs determined through the PRC master plan.
Feasibility Study Scope
The City anticipates awarding the feasibility study contract in the fall, with the work to take place into 2024.
While the study’s focus is on the aquatics and ice components, it will take a comprehensive approach that includes:

• Extensive engagement with public and interested parties  
• Scale and type of facility needed,
• A site analysis, including three to four design concepts,
• Potential additional recreation uses identified as needs in the PRC Master Plan, including fitness centre and indoor track.
• Archeological, geotechnical, parking and traffic assessments,
• Potential operating models and estimated costs.