KBAC Annual Maintenance Shutdown | City of Dawson Creek

Each year the Kenn Borek Aquatic Centre is closed to complete annual maintenance tasks that require the pools to be closed and emptied. The closure is typically scheduled during the late summer or early fall. This is to avoid closing during peak seasonal times, such as when the local swim clubs are in session. Recreation attendance typically decreases during the first month of school as well, so September is preferred for a full shutdown in the industry.

2025 Shutdown

The Annual Maintenance Shutdown typically lasts for approximately four weeks; however, the 2024 shutdown and the 2025 shutdown, will be longer than the average length.

The Kenn Borek Aquatic Centre, as well as the Climbing Wall, is closed from August 16, 2025 to October 10, 2025. It will reopen again on October 11, 2025.

There are several problems areas that need to be addressed before they become severe problems. Ignoring these issues at this stage would result in greater costs and longer shutdowns in the future, so we are taking a proactive approach.

What we are working on

Main Lap Pool Repairs

We’ll drain the main lap pool (that’s 990,000 litres of water), give it a deep clean, fix any damage, and regrout the pool floor. The grout takes approximately two weeks to dry. After the grout dries, we’ll refill and heat the pool again.

Ozone System Upgrade

We’re replacing our old ozone sanitizing equipment with new systems. These will be easier to maintain and more reliable than the last.

Other Work Being Done

Leisure Pool: We’ll drain and clean it and replace the underwater lights.
Tots Pool: We’ll review and fix the underwater lights if needed.
Hot Tub: We’re repairing the small lights around it.
Steam Room & Sauna: We’ll replace the heat sensors and extend the new aquatic life mural.
Rust Prevention: We’ll keep working on areas where rust can build up on the deck.
Deep Cleaning: Change rooms, climbing wall boulders, and more will get a full clean.
Routine Maintenance: We’ll inspect pumps, electrical systems, filters, tanks, and more. We’ll also rebuild the acid delivery system and clean the steam generator.

Doing the work

Kenn Borek Aquatic Centre Staff, along with the maintenance team, are working with contractors through the shutdown to complete all of the projects scheduled for this year. The Staff are responsible for cleaning, painting and performing crucial repairs and maintenance. Staff do a wonderful job cleaning up the facility each year before opening to the public.