School District 57 has thrown its support behind a proposed recreation complex at Masich Place Stadium and Prince George Secondary School.
Prince George Mayor Lyn Hall got the answer he came for Tuesday as all trustees voted in favour of the city's grant application due next month to the Union of B.C. Municipalities. The day before, Hall got a yes from city council, when it passed a resolution in support of the idea.
The city is asking for $3.45 million from a fund created to help projects that have a regional impact and are innovative. The concept would see the space used by both the city and the school district, to be facilitated under a partnership agreement.
Hall told the board Tuesday night that the city envisions it as a recreation complex that will serve as a major sports destination.
"During the 2015 Canada Winter Games, we really recognized that we have a real gem when it comes to our facilities," Hall said.
Trustee Tim Bennett noted the field would benefit multiple users.
"This is actually a no-cost item for the district and in some ways would be a cost savings for the district," Bennett said. "I think this provides an amazing opportunity for School Dstrict 57 students to be able to perfect and participate in athletics."
City park planner Laurie Kosec said the school soccer and football teams will likely get the most use out of the complex, followed by rugby.
Her presentation laid out the proposed park, which would include a new synthetic field, relocation of the high jump and pole vault facilities, new throws facilities with javelin launch pad that use PGSS fields, with the hope that they would build a clubhouse in the future.
"This is long overdue in Prince George, having an all-weather field," said Sharel Warrington.
Hall said the grass field at times is too dangerous for teams to use.
"It takes quite a beating," said Hall.
Chair Tony Cable said he was happy to partner with the city.
"We really love it when it doesn't cost any money," said Cable noted with a laugh.
Kosec said the city expects to hear whether it is successful in fall 2015, with a goal to complete the project over one season in 2016.
