Elk Valley Resources (EVR) and the Elk Valley Field House Society today announced a $1 million donation by EVR to the Elk Valley Field House Society to support the design and construction of a new recreational facility in Fernie.
The proposed facility, to be developed and operated by the Elk Valley Field House Society (EVFHS), will provide a much needed indoor recreational and gathering space for residents of the Elk Valley region.
The field house will be located next to the Fernie Aquatic Centre and feature a multi-use indoor space for a wide range of recreational, sporting and community needs.
“Our contribution towards a new field house underscores EVR’s commitment to investing in the communities where we live and operate,” said Mike Carrucan, CEO, EVR. “We recognize how important it is for the people of the Elk Valley to have an accessible, year-round space for health, wellness and connection—and are proud to be contributing to a project that brings the community together.”
The $1 million donation from EVR represents a major investment in the project, which began after the sudden closure of the Fernie Community Centre in June 2024. Since then, the EVFHS has been working closely with local groups and community members to create a sustainable, community focused
gathering space.
“We are deeply grateful to Elk Valley Resources for their generous investment in this community-led initiative, and to the Elk Valley Field House Society for their vision and leadership in championing this vital recreation facility,” said Nic Milligan, Mayor, City of Fernie. “The City of Fernie is proud to support this project by contributing City-owned land, RMI funding, and working in partnership with the Society to bring this exciting new space to life for our residents.”
With the donation from EVR, the field house project can move forward with design, planning, and fundraising, bringing the community one step closer to regaining essential indoor facilities. “We encourage other local businesses and industry partners to step forward and support this
important facility,” added Mike Carrucan. “By working together, we will create lasting benefits for the region.”
The City of Fernie has also confirmed a $525,000 contribution from its Resort Municipality Initiative (RMI) program, a provincial tourism funding program for resort municipalities, towards a new field house and has committed to a long-term lease of city-owned land to support the initiative.
Pictured in the photo from left to right: Antony McElwee (EVFHS), Mike Carrucan (EVR), Mayor Nic Milligan (City of Fernie), Dennis Staples (EVFHS), Bill Phillips (EVFHS) and Aysha Haines (EVFHS)
Photo credit: EVR/Vince Mo.
