The City of Burnaby is inviting the community to celebrate the grand opening of Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre on Saturday, May 11.
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to welcome the Burnaby community to the brand new Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre, a beautiful facility that will serve our community for years to come,” said Mayor Mike Hurley. “This facility was named in honour of one of Burnaby’s pioneering champions of human rights, and we’re extremely honoured that her family will be attendance for this special event.”
The celebrations will run from noon and go until 4 pm at Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre in South Burnaby. Following a brief introduction from Mayor Mike Hurley and Councillor Sav Dhaliwal, local BC artist, Jill Anholt will speak about her public art piece, Gliding Edge. Afterwards, Cleta Brown (Rosemary Brown’s daughter) will say a few words and assist with the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
The event will also feature free, family-friendly events including face painting, games, roving entertainment and music, as well as food trucks and exhibitions by local community organizations. Join us on the ice for a Toonie Try It Skate (pre-registration required starting 10 am on May 9 for Burnaby residents and non-residents on May 10). As limited skate rentals are available, please bring your own skates if possible.
Visitors are encouraged to take transit, cycle or walk as there is limited parking.
About Rosemary Brown
This facility has been named the Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre, in honour of politician and social justice champion Rosemary Brown.
Rosemary Brown (1930-2003) was a pioneer politician, community leader and human rights champion who used her voice to fight discrimination against women and people of colour. She served as a prominent Burnaby MLA from 1979 to 1986 and was the first Black woman elected to a provincial legislature in Canada.
About Rosemary Brown Recreation Centre
This new 92,000-square-foot facility is located at 10th Avenue and 18th Street in the Edmonds neighbourhood. Features include two NHL-sized rinks, a skate shop, a concession, meeting and multi-purpose rooms, warm-side arena viewing, an outdoor rooftop patio and universal gender-neutral washrooms.
Sustainable design features and water conservation strategies will help minimize the centre’s environmental footprint. The roofs feature north-facing windows to provide natural light and a feeling of connection to the outside. Electric vehicle charging stalls and parking for bicycles are also available for visitors.
Learn More: Burnaby.ca/RosemaryBrownOpening