Discover the Future of Recreation for edson and yellowhead county
Edson & District Leisure Centre Renovation and Expansion
Join us in celebrating the development of our state-of-the-art recreation complex, designed to enhance community life and foster a healthy lifestyle. The YCE Multiplex Project construction is now underway, with an anticipated completion in 2027.
Project Progress
- Schematic Design 100%
- Detailed Design 100%
- Tender and Procurement 20%
- Construction (Spring 2025-Fall 2027) 0%
A joint initiative between the Town of Edson and Yellowhead County is one step closer to becoming a regional staple, with schematic designs for the YCE Multiplex officially approved.
With the innovative design given the thumbs-up, a four-phase construction plan is in the books and construction is now underway!
Notably, this initial phase of construction will also focus on accommodating ongoing use of the existing Edson and District Leisure Centre throughout construction – a unique step advocated by both municipalities to ensure there’s no gap in access to recreational opportunities for residents.
Phase 2 of the project will include the construction of a new ice arena and aquatics area, including lane and leisure swimming, scheduled for completion in the winter of 2026.
From there, Phase 3 will incorporate the construction of a new lobby, and a gymnasium that includes an elevated walking track; and Phase 4 will see project completion through renovations to the current Centennial Arena and the conversion of the Memorial Arena to a new curling facility, as well as final site servicing.
The full project is expected to be completed by late 2027.
Latest Update (March 24, 2025) - Phase 1 Construction Plans
The Town of Edson and Yellowhead County are excited to announce the start of construction on the YCE Multiplex Project!
Phase 1 is set to commence on April 7, 2025, with on-site preparation and foundational work. This includes clearing the area, grading the land, and preparing the foundation.
Construction hours are scheduled for Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Residents should expect on-site activity during these hours and a potential slight increase in traffic while work is underway.
The main entrance will remain open during Phase 1, but the north parking lot will be closed.
For the most up-to-date information, please visit the YCE Multiplex website at ycemultiplex.ca.
A formal groundbreaking ceremony will be scheduled later this spring.
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Phase 1 - Now to summer 2025
Future Parking Plan
Feb 27, 2025
In the summer of 2024, the Town of Edson conducted public engagement with information sessions and a parking survey for the YCE Multiplex project. The feedback received was invaluable and taken into consideration as the final parking plan was developed. The final parking layout takes into account important factors such as preserving park/treed space, pedestrian safety, residential parking impacts, construction cost, and proper traffic flows.
- As outlined in the attached graphic, the new parking layout would include 310 total parking spaces (currently the EDLC has approximately 165 stalls).
- The main parking would be on the northwest corner of the facility with additional parking lots to the north (pool/gym areas) and south (arenas).
- 48th Street would be changed to one-way traffic (southbound) and additional angle parking would be made available on the east side of the street.
A new main parking lot will be constructed on the north-west corner and along the north side. The natural flow from the main parking lot would move around to the east side of the facility into the new parking spaces. Access to the new lobby would be on both from the west (main entrance) and east side (secondary entrance) of the facility. The south parking spaces will remain with some adjustments on the south-west corner of the existing parking lot with access near the south-west end (secondary entrance) of the facility. This parking design will convert 48th Street into a one-way south bound between 10th -12th Avenue.
Grande Yellowhead Public School Division coordinates bussing for both School Divisions, and the Transportation Department is aware of these changes and planning accordingly. No physical changes are expected until after the current school year concludes. The construction schedule for implementing these parking and roadway changes is still under consideration, and once confirmed, a more detailed implementation plan and timeline will be announced.
We would like to thank everyone that participated in the parking engagement. It was through this process that generated new ideas taken into consideration in the final design. While we understand it may not hit the mark with everyone, we believe it strikes the right balance for the priorities identified during the engagement process and the needs of the new facility. See the results of the engagement in the “What We Heard Report” at www.edson.ca/engage.
More information will be provided as the project construction continues, watch for updates on ycemultiplex.ca. In the meantime, questions on this parking plan can be directed to Doug Wagstaff, General Manager Community & Protective Services, Town of Edson dougw@edson.ca.
Construction Updates
Construction is now underway!
Phase 1 started April 7th, with on-site preparation and foundational work. This includes clearing the area, grading the land, and preparing the foundation.
Construction hours are scheduled for Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Residents should expect on-site activity during these hours and a potential slight increase in traffic while work is underway.
Don’t let the fencing fool you, the Leisure Centre is open for business. The intent is to continue to operate the pool and arena activities during construction. Though we expect some disruption and changes to how we access the services in the Leisure Centre, the EDLC Staff are excited with the start of the renovation and expansion project and look forward to working with our users through the construction.
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Phase 1 - Now to summer 2025
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Fencing has arrived
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Fencing is up
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Staff are getting excited!
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Trees have been cleared for the new aquatics space/parking area
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Trees are being cleared east of the site for a storm water management pond.
Check back often for more photos, videos, and updates from the site!
Facility Features
Upgraded Arenas
A new arena will be constructed, fit for competition at all levels. This will open up more availability for hockey and other activities throughout the winter months.
New Aquatics Centre
A multi-tank pool space is being developed with separate spaces for lane swimming and recreational swimming. It will also feature a water slide, lazy river, and hot tub!
Multi-Purpose Gymnasium
Enjoy a variety of sports in our versatile courts designed for basketball, volleyball, and more, catering to both casual and competitive play.
Curling is Back!
Memorial Arena is being converted to a curling facility, complete with lounge and viewing space as we welcome curling back in our community.
Walking Track
Get your steps in year-round with our new walking/running track. Enjoy a safe space for your strolls on the elevated track above the gymnasium.
Spacious Lobby
Our open concept lobby is the perfect place to grab some lunch, meet up with friends, or take in some of the exciting events at the facility all year long.
Steering Committee
To contact the Steering Committee please forward any correspondence to the respective Chief Administrative Officers Luc Mercier (County) or Christine Beveridge (Town). The information will then be provided to the Steering Committee for review.
The following is a list of Steering Committee members for the project.
- Mayor Wade Williams (County)
- Mayor Kevin Zahara (Town)
- Krystal Cacka (Town)
- Anthony Giezen (County)
- Dawn Mitchell (County)
- Greg Pasychny (Town)
- Christine Beveridge (Town CAO – Advisory)
- Luc Mercier (County CAO – Advisory)
Explore Our Vision in Pictures
Conceptual Drawings
*Pictures are conceptual and subject to change with final design and construction.
Project Beginnings
The Town of Edson and Yellowhead County are embarking on a historic joint project
Following many years of public input and facility studies, our communities have come together to start work on a renovation and expansion of the Edson & District Leisure Centre. The facility is planned to include a new pool, new arena, new gymnasium, renovations to Centennial Arena, repurposing Memorial Arena to a curling facility, and inclusion of an elevated walking track in the gymnasium.
This renovation will be a major benefit to the community and to the region, providing increased recreational space and enhancing quality of life for Town and County residents, while serving as a central hub for community gatherings, sports activities, cultural events, and more.
The YCE Multiplex Project comes at an estimated cost of $80.2 million, including $20 million provided through the federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program grant. Remaining funds will be shared evenly between the Town and County.
Frequently Asked Questions
There’s been a LOT going on behind the scenes as the Town of Edson and Yellowhead County prepare to embark on a HUGE joint project to improve recreational services for our residents!
What is the timeline for the new facility?
Phase 1 construction is now underway including clearing the area, grading the land, and preparing the foundation for a new arena and aquatics area. Once the pre-work is completed and a temporary access to the facility is created, the new arena will be constructed.
Renovations throughout the existing facility will be planned strategically to limit impacts to the existing facility operations.
Completion of the new aquatics and arena is anticipated to be completed for December 2026 with the remaining scheduled to be complete in late 2027.
How much will this facility cost?
The YCE Multiplex comes at an estimated cost of $80.2 million, including $20 million provided through the federal Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program grant. More detailed costing will be done once the detailed design work is complete this fall.
Why was the current site selected?
Following a condition assessment of the current facility, the Edson & District Leisure Centre site was deemed suitable for the YCE upgrades. Other sites were considered, but the current site was selected for it’s cost benefits, proximity to schools, and central location.
How can I add my company to the list for future bidding opportunities on this project?
Contractors interested in being considered for future bidding opportunities can submit their company name, contact information, and relevant qualifications to YCEMultiplex@clarkbuilders.com. Please ensure your information is up to date and keep an eye on our website for upcoming opportunities.
What amenities will the new facility have?
The facility is planned to include a new pool, new arena, new gymnasium, renovations to Centennial Arena, repurposing Memorial Arena to a curling facility, and inclusion of an elevated walking track in the gymnasium.
Will current programming be interrupted?
The YCE Multiplex construction is expected to take place in multiple phases to reduce impact to programming.
Phase 1 of construction will include the construction of a new ice arena and aquatics area, scheduled for completion in 2026.
Phase 2 will see the demo of the existing Aquatics Centre.
Phase 3 will incorporate the construction of a new lobby, and a gymnasium that includes an elevated walking track.
Phase 4 will see project completion through renovations to the current Centennial Arena and the conversion of the Memorial Arena to a new curling facility, as well as final site servicing, scheduled for completion in 2027.
Will parking be impacted?
The final parking layout takes into account important factors such as preserving park/treed space, pedestrian safety, residential parking impacts, construction cost, and proper traffic flows.
- As outlined in the attached graphic, the new parking layout would include 310 total parking spaces (currently the EDLC has approximately 165 stalls).
- The main parking would be on the northwest corner of the facility with additional parking lots to the north (pool/gym areas) and south (arenas).
- 48th Street would be changed to one-way traffic (southbound) and additional angle parking would be made available on the east side of the street.
A new main parking lot will be constructed on the north-west corner and along the north side. The natural flow from the main parking lot would move around to the east side of the facility into the new parking spaces. Access to the new lobby would be on both from the west (main entrance) and east side (secondary entrance) of the facility. The south parking spaces will remain with some adjustments on the south-west corner of the existing parking lot with access near the south-west end (secondary entrance) of the facility. This parking design will convert 48th Street into a one-way south bound between 10th -12th Avenue.
No physical changes are expected until after the current school year concludes. The construction schedule for implementing these parking and roadway changes is still under consideration, and once confirmed, a more detailed implementation plan and timeline will be announced.