On 25 September 2025, IAKS Canada, together with Simon Fraser University and the City of New Westminster, hosted a study tour highlighting two of Metro Vancouver’s most innovative recreation projects. The program gave participants a first-hand look at the Simon Fraser University Stadium in Burnaby and at the new təməsew̓ txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre in New Westminster.

Presentations by the project designers, local government staff and facility operators offered valuable insights into the planning, design, and operations behind these community-focused facilities.

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(c) Sabrina Hoeck

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(c) Sabrina Hoeck

The tour began at Simon Fraser University Stadium, opened in 2020 at Terry Fox Field. The project transformed a sloped campus green into a gathering and viewing destination with 1,823 formal seats and over 300 informal spaces. Its striking cantilevered canopy appears to float above the stands while integrating a press box, washrooms, and locker rooms below. Built with locally sourced cross-laminated timber suspended beneath steel girders, the canopy balances structural innovation with sustainability. More than a stadium, the facility functions daily as shaded outdoor seating, a social space, and even an outdoor classroom, underscoring its role as a student-driven community hub.

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(c) Sabrina Hoeck

Following the visit to SFU Stadium, the group proceeded to təməsew̓ txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre, Canada’s first zero carbon aquatic facility opened in May 2024. The 10,684 m², CAD 114 million centre replaces two aging facilities, offering a hub for aquatics, fitness, arts, childcare, and community programs. Features include a 50-m lap pool, leisure pool with lazy river, hot pools, sauna, gym, and multipurpose rooms. Designed through community input, it emphasizes inclusivity with universal change rooms, zero-entry pools, and full accessibility. Participants had the opportunity to explore the mechanical rooms and gain insight into the cutting-edge technologies supporting the facility’s operations. Sustainability highlights include Canada’s first gravity-fed pool filtration system, reducing energy and chlorine use. The all-electric building targets Zero Carbon, LEED v4 Gold, and Rick Hansen Accessibility Gold certifications.

Together, the two projects highlight how universities and municipalities are rethinking recreation to create sustainable, inclusive, and community-focused spaces. IAKS Canada is proud to note that participation in the study tour was offered free of charge to support knowledge sharing across the industry. The event concluded with a post-tour social and networking reception with light refreshments generously sponsored by Robbins Sports Surfaces.

 

(Report by Sabrina Hoeck)

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