A new multi-sport facility is coming to Centennial Park in Central Saanich — including space for pickleball — with a boost from a $2-million federal grant.
The covered, open-air facility will replace a 40-year-old lacrosse box with a 17,000-square-foot playing surface designed for a variety of sports and recreational programs, including lacrosse, pickleball and ball hockey.
The new facility will include team benches, a scoreboard and shot clocks.
The district approached the Peninsula Recreation Commission in June 2022 to take over construction and operation of the facility, with both parties agreeing that it would provide a regional service. The commission serves the residents of Central Saanich, North Saanich, Sidney and local First Nations.
Construction on the new facility is expected to start late this summer, with completion in 2025.
Total budget is $4.9 million, which includes the grant from the Federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program and $2.9 million from the commission’s capital plan — which is part of the Capital Regional District’s financial plan.
The project aligns with the commission’s 2022-26 strategic plan and has been added to the CRD’s 2023-27 plan.
Beginning in January 2025, the commission will also be operating other park facilities including the field house and three picnic shelters on a 60-year lease.
