Ground breaks on outdoor basketball court at Millennium Park and Ponds

After a year and a half of planning, ground has officially been broken on a new outdoor basketball court at Castlegar’s Millennium Park and Ponds. 

The Castlegar Rotary Club first approached city council with the idea for the court in early 2024. 

The city contributed $5,000 through its Community Enhancement Fund, with the remaining costs fundraised by the Rotary Club. 

A post from the city on social media said the 84-foot by 50-foot court will be located between the pickleball and volleyball courts. It will feature a navy-blue acrylic surface, white lines and a 12-foot gold Rotary wheel at centre court. 

The Rotary Club received approval to proceed with the project in April, with several conditions. 

The group was required to work with a qualified professional to assess nearby black cottonwood trees to ensure their preservation.  

A geotechnical review was also required to confirm site conditions, and the group had to ensure compliance with the city’s contractor management system and evaluate fencing options. 

Other requirements included: 

• Court material must be asphalt with an acrylic sports surface coating 

• Consideration for future conversion into a multi-use court 

• A schedule of quantities, including estimated pricing, for accurate budgeting and planning 

• Installation of benches for player comfort 

• Consideration of site lighting, either during initial construction or as a future improvement, to enhance safety and usability 

• A Chance Find Procedure in case of archaeological discoveries during construction 

• An agreement between the Castlegar Rotary Interact Club and the city outlining roles, responsibilities and handover procedures 

Ground was broken July 21. The Rotary Club said it raised more than $115,000 to support the project, along with significant in-kind contributions from individuals and corporate partners. 

The project aligns with goals outlined in the city’s 2023–27 strategic plan, including a commitment to support community groups and enhance quality of life. 

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