Calgary needs a Gameplan for recreation

Show your support for the Public Recreation Plan.

Calgary City Council has approved the Gameplan for Calgary’s public recreation system which aims to invest $200 million – $250 million a year in Calgary’s public recreation system. Now it’s up to the next city council to make it happen.

For decades recreation funding has not kept up with Calgary’s rapid population growth. Most of Calgary’s recreation facilities were built more than 35 years ago in established communities. With 80% of our population growth occurring on the city’s edges, facilities are not able to provide for increasing demand. Without appropriate investment our public recreation system will continue to fail to meet our needs. 

The Gameplan Report‘s making waves scenario plans for a growing population and ending decades of lagging funding for recreation infrastructure.

The making waves scenario includes: 

• Equitable distribution of facilities – increasing access across the city and ensuring everyone can benefit from Calgary’s recreation offerings.
• A 35% increase in swimming lessons – matching growing demand and ensuring everyone can access essential learning opportunities.
• A 25% increase in arena bookable hours – removing barriers for participation and promoting participation across the city.
• Service increases that match population growth – Ensuring our public recreation system delivers the best value for the most Calgarians.

Sounds pretty good right?

Now that Calgary City Council has approved the plan for recreation, it’s up to the next City Council to follow through and fund the plan. With Calgary’s municipal election fast approaching we need to ensure candidates for City Council know Calgarians expect them to follow through on funding for public recreation.

Here’s how you can help: Sign on to show your support for public recreation funding that helps meet Calgary’s needs now and in the future.