Annual Aquatics Maintenance Shutdown

Frequently Asked Questions

• When is the annual aquatics maintenance shutdown scheduled for?

  September 1 to October 1, 2026. 

• What work is being completed during the shutdown?

  During the annual shutdown, crews complete essential maintenance, inspections and repairs throughout the aquatics facility that cannot be safely completed while the pools are in operation.

  Work may include:

  • Maintenance and repairs to pool mechanical and water treatment systems
  • Repairs to pools, liners, tile, deck areas and railings
  • Maintenance of water features, slides and other aquatic amenities
  • Inspection and maintenance of electrical, plumbing and drainage systems
  • General maintenance in change rooms and other high-use areas
  • Deep cleaning and sanitation of pools and surrounding spaces

  The specific scope of work is determined through ongoing inspections, lifecycle planning and operational needs to help maintain safe, reliable and efficient operations.

• Why is the Eastlink Centre completing maintenance and repair work? 

  To ensure longevity, functionality, safety and efficiency of the aquatics area in order to meet the evolving needs of our community.  
   
  By prioritizing all repairs and maintenance to occur during the annual shutdown, the Eastlink Centre can provide a superior experience for residents during the rest of the year.

• Why is the shutdown scheduled for five weeks?

  Four to five weeks is a typically shutdown time for aquatics facilities. This allows contractors and staff to complete preventative work, repairs, a deep clean and upgrades to amenities. 

• Why does aquatics need to be closed during the maintenance work?

  Various reasons, including:  

  • Cleaning/sanitation: Pools require regular cleaning and sanitization to maintain water quality while operational.  During the shutdown, the pools are drained for deep cleaning and sanitation including scrubbing of the walls and floors. During this process, the pool area needs to be closed to prevent the public from entering the area and being exposed to workplace activities and potentially harmful environments. 
  • Repairing/replacing equipment: Pools have extensive mechanical and electrical systems, such as pumps, filters, heaters, and lighting, etc.   Over time, these components may require repairs or upgrades. When these maintenance repairs or upgrades are needed, the pool area must be closed to allow workers to access and service the pools and equipment safely, and minimize risk to the workers and the public. 
• Is the Aquatera Outdoor Pool staying open?

  The Aquatera Outdoor Pool will remain open until September 21, 2026.

• Is it typical for other aquatics facilities to have annual shutdowns?

  Yes. Most aquatics facilities in Canada have annual shutdowns to ensure longevity, functionality, safety and efficiency of their amenities. 

• Why is this maintenance being completed in the fall?

  The maintenance is scheduled for fall as the timing is typically when kids go back to school, summer camps are finished, summer tourism ends and there are a few weeks between the end of summer programs/user groups and fall programming.  
   
  Given the timeline, the Aquatera Outdoor Pool will remain open for as long as weather allows, however, it cannot solely accommodate the influx of visitors from the Eastlink Centre aquatics - including not only families but also user groups, physical therapy, rehabilitation and more.

• Can I put my membership/pass on hold during the shutdown?

  Yes, by filling out the Membership Hold and Cancellation Form. However, if you still use the Eastlink Centre twice a week, then we recommend keeping your membership active. 

• Can I cancel my membership/pass during the shutdown?

  Yes. However, if you still use the Eastlink Centre twice a week, then we recommend keeping your membership.

  If you plan on returning after the aquatics shutdown is finished, we suggest putting your membership on hold instead of cancelling. Memberships can be placed on hold or cancelled by filling out the Membership Hold and Cancellation Form.

• Is the Eastlink Centre offering reduced membership or day rates due to the shutdown?

  The Eastlink Centre will not offer reduced rates during the shutdown. General maintenance, closures and shutdown periods are built into membership prices, which are set by the City's Fees and Charges Bylaw.  
   
  Memberships can also be put on hold during the aquatics shutdown at members request. Drop-in users at the facility visit other amenities which will continue to be charged the regular daily drop-in rate.

• Why wasn’t the shutdown scheduled during the summer?

  The maintenance is scheduled for fall as the timing is typically when kids go back to school, summer camps are finished, summer tourism ends and there are a few weeks between the end of summer programs/user groups and fall programming.  
   
  The Aquatera Outdoor Pool will remain open for as long as weather allows, however, it cannot solely accommodate the influx of visitors from the Eastlink Centre aquatics - including not only families but also user groups, physical therapy, rehabilitation and more.

• Why should I keep my Eastlink Centre membership/Grande Access Pass?

  There is so much more to do at the Eastlink Centre outside of aquatics! The following features remain available through an Eastlink Centre membership or drop-in while the aquatics shutdown takes place: 

  • Access to the fitness centre, track, squash and racquetball courts, fieldhouse, concourse and Design Works Centre.  
  • Drop-in dryland instructor-led fitness classes including ZumbaTM, yoga, cycle and more. 
  • Drop-in activities including basketball, pickleball and more.  
  • PlayCare for children ages six-months to seven years old.  

  In addition to Eastlink Centre membership benefits, Grande Access pass holders also receive access to the Design Works Centre, Aquatera Outdoor Pool, and Dave Barr Community Centre, discounts on City programs and birthday party packages, and unlimited skate rentals at the Design Works Centre. 

  During the aquatics shutdown, Eastlink Centre members are able to use their membership at the Aquatera Outdoor Pool as well.