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 is scheduled for construction to start in 2025, with an anticipated completion in 2027.
Project Progress
- Schematic Design 100%
- Detailed Design 100%
- Tender and Procurement 5%
- 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 substantial work is set to begin in the SPRING of 2025.
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 (Feb 2025) - YCE Multiplex Tender Award - CLICK FOR DETAILS
YCE Multiplex Tender Award – Pre-Engineered Arena
The Town of Edson and Yellowhead County are taking the next step in getting closer to the construction of the YCE Multiplex project with the awarding of a pre-engineered arena.
The detailed design phase was finalized in November 2024, which provided a comprehensive blueprint of the facility’s layout, materials, and systems. This has allowed for more accurate cost estimation and project planning, allowing the two municipalities to move ahead on the next major tender awards.
To deliver the YCE Multiplex within the $80.24 million budget, a pre-engineered arena package is being pursued to maintain cost efficiency without compromising the facility’s quality, functionality, or longevity.
A pre-engineered arena is a structure that is designed and fabricated in a factory setting, and then transported to the site for assembly. These arenas typically feature steel frames and standardized components, allowing for faster construction, cost savings, and flexibility in design. The use of pre-engineered components ensures a high level of quality control.
The proposals for a pre-engineered arena were competitively evaluated based on cost, design compatibility, and market risk factors such as price fluctuations and currency exchange rates.
The pre-engineered arena tender is being awarded to Behlen Industries for $1,331,654 million. This covers the pre-engineered structure, roof insulation, insulated metal panels, and freight costs, with an additional allowance of $312,000 for design modifications to ensure the system aligns with the current design intent for the space, including potential adjustments to the mezzanine.
Awarding this contract is a critical step to keep within the project schedule and budget. This commitment to a pre-engineered building supplier is needed to complete the coordination of the structure and foundation design for the project.
The next tender award is for the pool mechanical, mechanical general, and electrical general components totalling $18.6 million. These items have been combined into a single project package, with the tender awarding process set to begin at the end of January, and continue over the next several months.
These tenders, totalling $19.9 million, align with the overall project budget of $80.24 million.
For inquires regarding contractors interested in being considered for opportunities can submit their company name, contact information, and relevant qualifications to YCEMultiplex@clarkbuilders.com.

Construction Updates
Coming in 2025!
Check back often for 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?
Construction is scheduled to start in the spring of 2025 with the new aquatic area, as well as pre-work required prior to the arena addition. 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?
Parking plans are currently in development. Further options stemming from the public engagement are being explored before site plans are finalized.
What is the current status update?
A more detailed costing analysis is being worked on and substantial construction is expected to start in the spring of 2025.