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.

2026 Shutdown

The Annual Maintenance Shutdown typically lasts for approximately four weeks.

The Kenn Borek Aquatic Centre, as well as the Climbing Wall, is closed from August 29, 2026 to October 2, 2026. It will reopen again on October 3, 2026.

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

Steam Room Capital Project

This year’s primary capital project will focus on the steam room. Planned work includes:

Removing and replacing the steam room tile
Inspecting the underlying walls and completing any required repairs identified during the renovation
Replacing the steam generator
Replacing the venting system that connects the steam generator to the exterior of the building
Replacing the water softener that services the steam generator

Facility Maintenance & Infrastructure Projects

In addition to the steam room project, staff and contractors will complete several infrastructure and preventative maintenance projects throughout the facility, including:

Electrical repairs and upgrades, including overhead lighting replacements
Replacing hot tub lights
Replacing skimmer grates
Plumbing repairs, including shut-off valve replacements
Pump replacements and pump pad rebuilds
Annual acid scrubbing of pool basins and deck surfaces
Replacement of chemical feed lines and injectors
Inspection and cleaning of the lap pool surge tank
Cleaning, treatment, and maintenance of sand filtration systems
Rust mitigation and painting throughout the aquatic facility

These projects are important for maintaining the safety, reliability, and long-term operation of the facility and its equipment.

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.