UBC Properties delivers value through vision at UBC Recreation Centre North
The new UBC recreation centre, Recreation Centre North, has completed construction and has officially received its occupancy permit on June 4.
It triples the current available indoor fitness space, bringing over 100,000 square feet of new, inclusive recreation areas to serve the growing UBC community and its over 60,000 students. This new facility reflects UBC Properties’ impact on the Vancouver and Kelowna campuses, having brought to life 15 million square feet of academic space over the last 37 years.
A large part of UBC Properties’ role at UBC is managing complex institutional developments with budgets over $5 million on behalf of UBC across both campuses, ensuring they are delivered on time and on budget while maximizing value. We work closely with consultants, contractors, and UBC stakeholders to prioritize, manage risk, and innovate to maintain a project’s momentum through its lifecycle.
As project managers for Recreation Centre North, we led the development of the facility from early design in 2020 through to completion in 2025. The final building is a collaborative effort between UBC Athletics & Recreation, the Alma Mater Society (AMS), and a team of consultants, builders, and trades.
The facility was a major outcome of the UBC GamePlan, a 20-year Recreation and Athletics Facilities Strategy launched in 2015 and finalized in 2017. GamePlan was developed to support UBC’s commitment to the wellbeing of students, staff, and the community by building more recreation and athletics spaces. UBC Properties enabled UBC to bring this commitment to life through the Recreation Centre North, offering students more room to move and connect.
Located at 6140 Student Union Boulevard just north of the Life Building, the four-storey Recreation North facility includes three gymnasium courts, an elevated indoor walk/run/roll track, a large fitness and weight training zone, and multi-purpose studios. There are also universal and gendered changerooms and administrative offices.
Recreation Centre North is targeting LEED Gold certification for its high-performance design and environmental efficiency. It is also on track to achieve Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Certification, ensuring the space is accessible for all users.
UBC Properties Trust has officially handed over this facility to UBC Athletics & Recreation and the AMS. Their engagement throughout the design and construction process helped shape a building that is both functional and grounded in the needs and voices of students.
As the building prepares for opening, we look forward to seeing it activate student, resident, and visitor energy and support a thriving campus.
