The City of Revelstoke is asking for public input to help inform council decision-making and shape detailed options for the future of the Revelstoke Forum and Curling Club. The current building housing the forum and curling club is more than 60 years old. “We need to plan for the future. Planning now ensure the city is well positioned for future investment grant opportunities,” the city said in a statement.
The city has launched a six-week public engagement process intended to hear the community’s thoughts about potential options for the future of the forum. Options for the future of the Revelstoke Forum and Curling Club are:
- Replace the roof and make the required building code upgrades ($25–35 million)
- New players arena with seating on one side ($25–35 million)
- New spectator arena with seating on both sides ($45–50 million)
- A new multi-sport complex, including an ice arena ($50–$70 million)
“The Revelstoke Forum has served this community well for the last 60 years. It’s now time to reimagine the arena and what our community needs and wants going forward,” Mayor Gary Sulz said in the statement. “Revelstoke continues to grow, and our residents and business community are interested in greater access to year-round recreation and tourism opportunities. The arena is at that heart of how we meet those needs.”
The city said recently adopted Parks and Recreation Plan (2022) and the Destination Tourism Revelstoke Strategy indicate community interest in exploring a new multi-sport complex. This first phase of engagement will help advance community awareness and dialogue about what options might look like. Funding will require a combination of city infrastructure reserves, borrowing, and external grants or partnerships. While a detailed estimate is not yet developed for any option, the city said “order of magnitude estimates signal all options require a multi-million-dollar investment ranging from $25–$70 million.”
This is the first phase of public engagement regarding the forum and curling club. Electoral approval to borrow funds for the purpose of upgrading or building a new arena facility will be sought once a preferred approach is known. According to the city this would be sought through a referendum or alternative approval process.
Community members can learn more about the options for the forum and curling club by attending an open house and tour at the arena on Thursday, May 4 from 4 p.m to 7 p.m. There is also a survey available on talkrevelstoke.ca which is open until Wednesday, May 31. City staff will also meet with users and interested community groups. The city said input will be compiled and shared with council and the public later this summer.