Port Moody residents will have more time this summer to lift weights at the city’s recreation complex, walk around its indoor track or shoot hoops in the gym.
The city is extending its operating hours at the complex beginning July 2 through the Labour Day weekend.
It will be open an extra hour in the evening on weekdays, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; on weekends, it will be open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Previously summer weekend hours were from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
There will be no new drop-in or registered programs offered during the extended hours, but the weight room, walking track and gym will be available.
“Extending the rec complex’s summer hours further into the evening will provide more flexibility for all patrons including youth, individuals with busy or irregular schedules and people who want to maximize the value of their purchased memberships,” said Port Moody Mayor Meghan Lahti in a news release.
As well, she added, the city is making inclusion and support services available to kids registered in its summer camp programs that run from July 2 to Aug. 30.
Beginning June 17, families will also be able to take advantage of lower admission fees at the city’s two outdoor swimming pools.
Visitors to the pools at Rocky Point and Westhill parks will pay just $2 per person for all sessions, regardless of age or family status.
According to the city’s manager of recreation, Nathan Taylor, the fee reduction brings Port Moody more in line with those charged by neighbouring communities: Coquitlam charges $2 for all users while admission to pools in Port Coquitlam is free.
In a report, Taylor said the lower fee would reduce financial barriers and increase participation at the city’s pools. It will also simplify the fee structure for users and staff.
Taylor said the new fee could cost Port Moody almost $18,000 in revenue this summer, but that could be offset if more people visit the pools.
The pools open with a limited schedule on June 17 while regular summer hours begin July 2.
