Residents from the district of Tumbler Ridge can swim, play, and skate for free in the city of Dawson Creek’s recreation facilities until next Saturday, Feb. 28.
This move was to support the city’s southern neighbour as they continue grieving last week’s tragedy. It offers pool time at the Kenn Borek Aquatic Centre, skating at Memorial Arena, climbing at the South Peace Multiplex, and the Kin Arena Sports Floor.
“They’re our neighbours, right? They’re our families – so we’re very close. We have a very close relationship with them. We’re very intertwined, our communities. Anytime somebody’s going through some kind of tragedy you want to help in any way you can, and one of this magnitude – your heart hurts. So, you want to do everything you can for them,” said Mayor Darcy Dober of Dawson Creek, describing the city’s relationship with Tumbler Ridge.
“Our city team was just thinking about stuff we could do, and it just came down to facilities as a way for those residents to get away (and) to focus on something else,” he continued.
No proof of residency is required for these out-of-town visitors using the recreation centres, according to the city, who said informing the front desk will suffice.
“We have an indoor play flooring at our Kin Arena, which is like a sports flooring. So, for pickleball, volleyball, (and) basketball,” explained the mayor.
Public skates and swims, as well as facilities that are free for all, including the Dawson Creek Art Gallery and walking track, will also be available for those from Tumbler Ridge.
Moving forward, he said the city council and staffers will support the district’s residents and overseers as they continue mourning.
“We don’t know what (the future) looks like, but I’m in contact with them. We have a really good relationship with the mayor, and their council, and their city team up there at the district,” said Dober.
“We’re here for the community of Tumbler Ridge. Our hearts are breaking for them, and we’re here to stand with them no matter what. To help (them) get through this. Like I said, they’re our neighbours and they’re our friends. So, you know, we’re with them 100 per cent of the way.”
