‘It’s time’: Old Strathcona residents want city council to approve rec centre
Posted August 6, 2026 10:55 am.
Last Updated August 6, 2026 10:56 am.
It was not your usual summertime block party in Old Strathcona.
Instead of striking up neighbourly conversation and chowing down on burritos and shaved ice, the block party on Wednesday night was about something more.
Residents want a rec centre built near 70 Avenue and 105 Street.
“We’re gearing up our advocacy again because we think it’s important,” said Elaine Solez.
The proposed Rollie Miles Recreation Centre has been in the design phase at the City of Edmonton since at least 2023 after being first introduced in 2021.
It would include a swimming pool, gyms, fitness areas, and an outdoor skating rink and tennis court.
Old Strathcona residents have been pushing for a dedicated rec centre for many years, instead of going to other rec centres like Kinsmen and Confederation, which are not within walking or biking distance.
“This group of neighbourhoods is really increasing in density and we want that,” said Emily Vespi, a member of the group Friends of Scona Rec. “We want places for people to live. Our city is growing. When the city grows, we want vibrant neighbourhoods and that means having services right here in the neighbourhood.”
The area’s councillor asked the city for an update on the project, arguing a rec centre in Old Strathcona means more capacity elsewhere.
“It will take pressure off of Terwillegar, Meadows, all the other rec centres,” said Ward papastew Coun. Michael Janz. “We have grown by 250,000 people. We need space for new swimming lessons, new swimmers. We need spaces to go recreate and belong in the community, and that’s what this offers.”
An update on the rec centre’s design phase is expected to come to a council committee Monday. A city report says design development is finished, but detailed design and construction remain unfunded and on hold.
The final decision on whether or not the rec centre becomes a reality comes when council decides its next four-year budget cycle.
