A splashy new era of recreation officially kicked off on Friday as community leaders and local dignitaries gathered poolside to celebrate the grand opening of the $44.9-million IPC Aquatic Centre in Lac La Biche.
Seamlessly expanded onto the existing Bold Centre, the state-of-the-art water facility is set to transform local leisure and athletic opportunities, replacing the region’s long-serving Portage Pool, which shut its doors after 32 years of operation.
During the poolside opening ceremony, Lac La Biche County Mayor Paul Reutov highlighted the multi-million-dollar project as a pivotal milestone in the municipality’s long-term growth strategy.
“The opening of the IPC Aquatics Centre represents another major step forward in Lac La Biche County’s commitment to building a strong, vibrant and growing community,” Mayor Reutov said. “This facility is part of that broader vision, building on the success of the Bold Centre and strengthening Lac La Biche County as a regional destination for recreation, tourism and opportunity.”
The facility takes its name from International Petroleum Corporation (IPC), which secured a 15-year naming rights agreement for $500,000 earlier this summer.
Speaking on behalf of the company, IPC Canada Project Director Travis Henson emphasized the alignment between the energy producer and the local workforce.
“IPC is proud to be part of the Lac La Biche community, where many of our team members and the people who support our operations live and raise their families,” Henson stated. “The IPC Aquatics Centre is something the entire community can be proud of, and we’re excited to see it bring families together, keep people active, and serve the community for many years to come.”
The facility boasts an impressive array of features designed for all ages and athletic levels including a 25-metre, six-lane competition pool, Lazy river & large water slide, Indoor hot tubs & traditional sauna and an outdoor hot tub & barrel sauna.
On Saturday, Lac La Biche County is hosting a community-wide celebration that double-functions as both a public launch for the IPC Aquatic Centre and a 15th-anniversary milestone for the neighboring Bold Centre, featuring a full slate of family activities.
CFWE will be on location throughout the day.
That evening, we will host a radio bingo bash at the Bold Centre, doors open at 5. Buy your cards ahead of time at Fiddlers & 881 Corner Gas.
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