Prince Albert, Sask. — The City of Prince Albert officially marked a major milestone Friday with the grand opening of the Lake Country Co-op Leisure Centre, the largest recreational infrastructure project in the city’s history.
The $117 million facility, which broke ground in July 2022 and wrapped up construction in February 2025, is now home to a state-of-the-art aquatics centre and a twin arena complex. City officials say the project not only provides new opportunities for sport and leisure, but also represents a significant investment in the future health and economic vitality of the community.
A Historic Investment in Recreation
Funding for the project came from a mix of federal, provincial, municipal, and private sources. The Government of Canada contributed $24 million through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), while the Province of Saskatchewan provided $19.9 million. The City of Prince Albert covered the remainder.
“Infrastructure and investments in our communities create excitement and memories for future generations,” said Minister of Government Relations Eric Schmalz. “Facilities like the Lake Country Co-Op Leisure Centre are a community gathering spot and drive expanding economic opportunities that lay the foundation for a strong, safe and secure Saskatchewan today and in the years to come.”
The project was further bolstered by a major private sponsorship deal. In October 2024, Lake Country Co-op announced a 25-year agreement worth $10 million, payable over the term, which secured exclusive naming rights to the facility. City officials called the partnership a demonstration of the co-op’s commitment to youth, families, and the long-term growth of Prince Albert.
A Centrepiece for Community Life
The new centre offers one of the most comprehensive recreational spaces in northern Saskatchewan. The aquatics area spans 47,000 square feet, with features including an eight-lane competitive pool, a wave and splash pool, a lazy river, whirlpool, and two full waterslides.
The 77,995-square-foot arena complex boasts two NHL-sized rinks, larger dressing rooms, and significantly expanded spectator seating. Accessibility upgrades are also built into the design, with dedicated wheelchair seating throughout: 271 seats in the South Arena, including seven wheelchair spaces, and 522 seats in the North Arena, with twelve wheelchair spaces.
Mayor Bill Powalinsky said the new facility represents more than bricks and mortar.
“We’re extremely proud to open this state-of-the-art facility officially,” Powalinsky said. “This centre is more than a simple building — it’s an investment in our community’s health, well-being, and future. We thank our partners for helping make this dream a reality — the Canadian and Saskatchewan Governments.”
Economic and Social Impact
City leaders argue the investment will extend well beyond sport and recreation. Officials say the centre will help attract tournaments, events, and visitors from across Saskatchewan and beyond, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and retail. The expanded seating and NHL-sized rinks are expected to position Prince Albert as a host for larger competitions, while the aquatic facilities will allow the city to expand swimming lessons, training, and recreation programming.
The project also highlights the role of public-private partnerships in funding major municipal initiatives. Lake Country Co-op’s $10 million naming rights agreement ensures that one of the region’s largest member-owned retailers is closely tied to the city’s most ambitious community facility.
Looking Ahead
With the doors now officially open, residents and visitors alike can begin making use of the new amenities. The city has scheduled programming to begin immediately, ranging from recreational swims and hockey practices to larger community events.
For Prince Albert, the opening represents both an end and a beginning: the conclusion of years of planning and construction, and the start of a new chapter in the city’s recreational landscape.
