RESIDENTS gathered to advocate for new public pools in Sunset and Marpole, urging the Vancouver Park Board to include the projects in the 2027–2030 Capital Plan. Supporters argued that South Vancouver has been left without adequate aquatic facilities following the closures of both Sunset Pool and the Langara YMCA pool. Many speakers emphasized that replacement pools are essential to ensure local residents have equitable access to recreation, swimming lessons, fitness programs, and community spaces.

Despite the strong public turnout and advocacy, a majority of Park Board Commissioners voted against adding the Sunset and Marpole pool projects to the Capital Plan. Commissioners from the Vancouver Liberals and Vancouver Greens argued that South Vancouver is not underserved and has already received sufficient investment.

Commissioner Jas Virdi, who supported both projects, expressed disappointment with the outcome.

“Those of us who live in South Vancouver know that’s not the reality,” Virdi said. “After losing both the Sunset Pool and the Langara YMCA pool, our community deserves replacement pools and the same access to quality recreation as the rest of the city.”

While the motion was unsuccessful, advocates say the campaign is far from over. Community members pledged to continue pushing for investment in South Vancouver and to ensure replacement aquatic facilities remain a priority in future planning.

“The fight isn’t over,” Virdi said. “I’ll continue advocating until South Vancouver gets the pools and investment our community deserves.”

Organizers also thanked the residents who attended and spoke in support of the projects, calling the turnout a powerful demonstration of the community’s commitment to improving recreational infrastructure in South Vancouver.