Parking lot access improvements: South Ridge YMCA, Notre Dame Academy, Dr. Roy Wilson Learning Centre

The City of Medicine Hat will be adding a new parking lot access to the primary (west) parking lot shared by the South Ridge YMCA, Notre Dame Academy, and Dr. Roy Wilson Learning Centre. The new access point will be located on the south end of the parking lot off Spruce Way SE. Currently, the parking lot is only accessible from Strachan Road SE.

Construction activities are anticipated to begin this week. Project elements include minor roadway modifications at the access point, asphalt paving, curb and sidewalk changes, and parking lot speed bumps to help maintain safe, appropriate speeds in the lot. Landscaping and irrigation restoration will be included following construction.

Access to all three facilities will be maintained during construction. Traffic control measures will be in place to maintain safe access for motorists, pedestrians, staff, and visitors throughout construction. The edge of the work zone may temporarily encroach onto Spruce Way SE. However, two-way traffic will be maintained. The adjacent sidewalk and a small section of the south end of the parking lot will be temporarily unavailable during construction as well.

The City and contractor will ensure this work is completed before the 2026-27 school year begins. Weather permitting, construction will be complete by August 23, 2026.

“The South Ridge YMCA, Notre Dame Academy, and Dr. Roy Wilson Learning Centre are important community destinations with significant daily activity,” said Jamie McLeod, Manager of Asset Planning & Facility Operations with Parks and Recreation. “Improved parking lot access is a crucial site upgrade which will enhance safety, improve vehicle movement, and support convenient access to these recreation and educational facilities.”

The project is a result of consultation with the Medicine Hat Catholic Board of Education, Medicine Hat Public School Division and YMCA of Southeastern Alberta. The City of Medicine Hat appreciates the collaborative nature of this vibrant partnership, and funding contributions from both school divisions to help make this project possible.

The City would like to thank residents for their understanding while this important infrastructure project is completed.

For media inquiries, please contact:
media@medicinehat.ca