Northern Edge Sport Association (NESA) has spent four exciting years planning the expansion of the existing gymnastics facility into the Northern Edge Sports & Recreation Centre. NESA is in a 15-year lease agreement with The Town of Smithers, who owns LB Warner Site property, and has granted permission for NESA to expand the current footprint of the building 5000 square feet (100 x 50 feet) toward Main Street.

The current facility is operating at capacity and the demand for affordable community recreation and sports programming exceeds the current physical footprint. Physical fitness, wellness, and mental health are a community priority as we recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. NESA recognizes that more than ever, there is a need for community fitness, wellness and social interaction, and this project will provide a clean and safe, supportive environment for community members of all ages to gather.

Recreational and school group programs currently offered at NESA have wait-lists. With such an active community, multi-sport demand for athlete development at all levels is very high. Many community sporting groups are seeking year-round indoor space for programming. NESA intends to prioritize inclusive and affordable recreational programming to all residents of the Bulkley Valley community, enhancing offerings to schools, daycares, preschools, learning support groups, and seniors in all socio-economic levels. NESA will continue to support the growing recreational and competitive programs, offer increased physical fitness training opportunities such as fitness classes, high performance strength and conditioning training for community sport organizations, and increased seasonal programs such as summer, spring break, and winter break programming.

This expansion will provide an increased ability to host events and learning opportunities, will enhance community well being, strengthen the local economy, help to encourage families to move to the North West region for job retention, and revitalize the community in these post pandemic times. One of the needs identified is a community learning space for course and workshop offerings, and a meeting space for community groups to come together in a safe and neutral setting.

The facility will include a large open space for diverse community programming, a welcoming front entry way and boot room, accessible change rooms, bathrooms, offices, a multi-use studio space, and a community learning space.

Investment in rural infrastructure builds stronger, more inclusive communities, helps safeguard the environment and the health of residents, and helps support local economies. NESA aims for energy efficiency and low carbon emissions.

NESA aims to provide positive change in health and wellness for the future of Bulkley Valley residents, and is excited to collaborate with multiple community partners to bring this project to fruition. NESA is currently seeking community sponsors for the amazing legacy project.