The City of Grande Prairie, along with the project consultants and contractors, are exercising due diligence to ensure that construction of the Bear Creek Outdoor Pool meets quality standards and regulations during the last phase.

Originally built in 1962, the Bear Creek Outdoor Pool has been a hallmark facility in our community for over 50 years. Our goal is to ensure the new build meets our standards and expectations before it re-opens to the public, so its legacy continues in Grande Prairie.

Due to unseasonable weather and several flooding events this year, the project has experienced the associated delays. One of the main challenges has been the application of the multiple layers of the pool basin coating. The pool coating consists of three separate layers: a base coat, a mesh coat and a top coat. To insure each layer adheres successfully to the pool tank basin, a specific amount of cure time is required and the correct temperature and climate is critical. The unseasonable weather has repeatedly made this challenging.

The goal for the rest of 2018 is pool commissioning which is scheduled to begin October 11. Commissioning consists of confirming proper mechanical operations and meeting all health department regulations. It will take approximately two weeks to complete and will conclude with the winterization of the pool. Prior to the public opening in late spring 2019, lane markers and the application of an aesthetic finish will complete the project. This plan is weather dependant and subject to change.

We recognize the re-opening of the Bear Creek Outdoor Pool is a top community priority. The newly constructed pool is designed to be a premier facility and community hub. We are committed to ensuring the project vision becomes a reality by meeting all design standards before we accept the finished product.

We look forward to announcing a grand opening in spring 2019.

Information provided by the City of Grande Prairie.