Aerial view of the Township of Russell Recreation Complex as of July 2025. Courtesy Photo

EMBRUN – It is enjoyable to watch a project as large as the Russell Recreation Complex develop. Many years were spent studying, planning, designing, modifying, and finally deciding to take the steps needed to take the idea from the virtual realm and turn it into something tangible.

The Township regularly publishes details of the progress in the facility’s development, and things seem to be moving quickly. Each week new major milestones are reached, and everything appears to be moving ahead as quickly as possible.

This week, the erection of the pool structure has begun, which is a major step forward. Last week, the leisure pool slab was completed, and the first rink apron slab was successfully poured,  with preparations to pour the second one next week are underway.

Aerial photographs of the site reveal how the building envelope continues to take shape, with the installation of white masonry stone already underway.

A facility of this size and scope is a massive investment for any community, but the Township of Russell concluded that based on projected growth, it was a step that needed to be taken. The groundbreaking for the $100 million dollar project took place on September 17, 2024, and it is expected to be operational by the fall of 2026.

When complete the facility will include:

  • Three ice rinks to replace the current two in Embrun and Russell, increasing available ice time.

Rink 1: Capacity of 400 (250 seats + 150 standing room)

Rink 2: Capacity of 155 (125 seats + 30 standing room)

Rink 3: Capacity of 197 (117 seats + 80 standing room)

  • 12 spacious change rooms, each equipped with modern amenities including gender-neutral facilities.
  • The complex will support various ice sports including hockey, figure skating, broomball, and ringette, with the capability to host tournaments.
  • A 25-metre, 6-lane indoor pool with a leisure pool and water jets.
  • Facilities include a dry sauna and a universal changing room for full accessibility and inclusivity.
  • Year-round swimming lessons, regional competitions, and recreational swimming opportunities will be available, creating local jobs.
  • A 10,000-square-foot community hall divisible into three sections for maximum flexibility, featuring a fully equipped kitchen.

The new complex will join an already vibrant recreational area, which includes a sports dome, the Jonathan Pitre Accessible Park, seniors’ exercise area, and outdoor sports courts. The site will also feature a canteen, gender-neutral bathrooms, and proximity to the local recreation trail.