Community Facility Needs Assessment is underway

February 12, 2008

(Red Deer, Alberta) – Growing demand for leisure, recreation and cultural programs and services in Red Deer means City facilities are busier than ever. An assessment is underway that will help guide future development and ensure community needs are met for years to come.

The Community Facilities Needs Assessment kicked off last September, and consultants CDC/Converge Group have already begun stakeholder and user group consultation.

“We are conducting the assessment with the community in mind,” said Greg Scott, Recreation Parks and Culture Manager. “It will help us determine the viability of what we have and what we need. It will help us prepare for growth and determine priorities for the future.”

Current growth trends are expected to continue with an anticipated 125,000 people before 2010. Most City facilities were developed when Red Deer’s population was half of what it is today. The assessment will help guide future development. It will help the community, City administration and municipal leaders make informed decisions about the future of recreation, parks and culture facility development in Red Deer.

Scott says forward planning is crucial as Red Deer grows and there is an increased demand for recreation, leisure and cultural opportunities. “We are committed to community development, and want to exhaust every opportunity to partner with stakeholders, community associations and user groups to ensure the needs and priorities of the community are met and sustained.”

Many stakeholders are already working with The City as they carry out the assessment. Groups like Red Deer Minor Hockey, Red Deer Curling Club, aquatic user groups and the Red Deer Gymnastic Association are just a few that have been instrumental to date.

Public will also have opportunities to give input and participate as The City moves forward with more consultation this spring.

The assessment is expected to wrap-up early this summer when it is presented to City Council for approval.

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For more information, please contact:

Greg Scott, Manager
Recreation, Parks and Culture department
The City of Red Deer
403-342-8159

or

Barbara Hill
CDC/ Converge Group
403-291-1970