This drone photo shows the complete footprint of the new Russell Sports Complex. Courtesy Photo

EMBRUN – The Township of Russell is moving closer to completing its new Recreation Complex, with occupancy of the arenas and community hall anticipated for Dec. 11, 2026, followed by the aquatic facility on Feb. 14, 2027.

The dates remain subject to construction progress, inspections and regulatory approvals. The township cautions that occupancy dates are not confirmed public opening dates, as additional testing, staff training and operational preparations will be required before residents can use the facilities.

The complex will open in phases, allowing individual areas to become operational as they are ready rather than delaying the entire facility until all components are complete.

Following occupancy, staff will need several weeks to test building systems and equipment, address outstanding issues, complete training and verify that safety and operating procedures are in place.

The aquatic facility will require additional work, including specialized equipment testing, water-quality verification and public health approvals before swimmers can enter the pool area.

The township said the phased approach is intended to ensure the complex operates safely and efficiently from the outset while allowing the arenas and community hall to open independently of the aquatic facility.

Public opening dates will be announced once construction, testing, training and approvals have progressed sufficiently.

Planning for programs and services is also continuing while construction advances.

The township received 1,998 responses to an aquatic programming survey, with strong interest expressed in children’s swimming lessons, aquafitness, lane swimming, and family and public swims. Discussions are also underway with swim teams and school boards to explore potential programming and partnership opportunities.

Other preparations include reviewing the Municipal Facilities Allocation Policy, planning the transfer of ice rentals to the new complex, developing staffing and training plans, and exploring sponsorship and naming-rights opportunities. The township is also reviewing rental fees and packages to reflect operating costs and community needs.

A one-year pilot project is being planned for the new canteen and temporary office space to address immediate administrative requirements.

A draft of the updated facility allocation policy is expected to go before council in November, with adoption anticipated by December.

Council will discuss options for the interim use of existing community halls and arenas during 2027. Their long-term future will be assessed through a master planning study expected to be completed in October 2027.

The township continues to work with the project manager, general contractor, consultants, commissioning team and user groups to coordinate the transition from construction to operation.

Despite the complexity of delivering a major multi-use recreation facility, the project remains on budget as it moves toward completion, according to the township.

The priority, according to the Township, is to ensure each component is fully tested, properly staffed and ready to serve residents before public access begins.