The new Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre in South Burnaby has finally opened after years of delays. The opening celebration included a ribbon-cutting ceremony, family-friendly activities, and food trucks. The facility, located in the Edmonds area, spans 92,000 square feet and features two NHL-sized ice rinks, offering skating lessons and various dry sports activities such as pickleball and floor hockey. Despite construction delays due to supply chain issues during the pandemic, the facility now stands as a neighbourhood and sports hub in the community.
The new recreation centre is named in honour of Rosemary Brown, a social justice champion who was the first Black woman elected to a provincial legislature in Canada. Burnaby City Council decided to name the facility after Brown in 2021, recognizing her contributions to the community. Brown’s daughter, Cleta Brown, expressed that she believes her mother would be thrilled with the naming of the facility, as it aligns with her values of advocating for women, children, and families. The Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre symbolizes the importance of family and community, reflecting the legacy of its namesake in promoting inclusivity and equality.
Mayor Mike Hurley emphasized the significance of the new facility as a place for families to come together and for young athletes to kickstart their sports journeys. The recreation centre offers a range of amenities and programs to cater to various interests, including ice skating, hockey, pickleball, and more. The two ice rinks within the facility will host skating lessons and ice user groups during the day, providing opportunities for community members to engage in recreational activities and sports.
The construction of the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre faced challenges and setbacks, with the original opening date of fall 2021 being delayed multiple times due to the impact of the pandemic on the supply chain. However, the perseverance of the project team and the support of the community have culminated in the successful completion and opening of the facility. The rec centre serves as a gathering place for families and sports enthusiasts, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting an active and healthy lifestyle for residents of South Burnaby.
The celebration of the opening of the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre marked a milestone for the community, highlighting the importance of investing in recreational facilities and honoring local leaders who have made significant contributions to society. The event brought together residents, officials, and supporters to commemorate the facility’s opening and pay tribute to Rosemary Brown’s legacy. As a state-of-the-art facility with modern amenities and programming, the recreation centre is poised to become a focal point for community engagement, sports development, and social gatherings in South Burnaby, enriching the lives of those who utilize its offerings.
In conclusion, the opening of the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre represents a significant achievement for the City of Burnaby and a tribute to a trailblazing leader in the community. The facility’s diverse programs and amenities cater to a wide range of interests and age groups, promoting inclusivity, health, and well-being. Named after Rosemary Brown, the rec centre embodies her values of advocacy, community engagement, and empowerment, serving as a beacon of inspiration for future generations. The completion of the facility stands as a testament to resilience, collaboration, and the enduring spirit of community building in South Burnaby.
