Open for the Community

Westside was still in the throes of Covid-related public health restrictions at the beginning of the fiscal year, September 2021. Facilities continued to operate at a reduced capacity, proof of vaccination became a requirement, QR codes were mandatory, and thousands of Westside memberships remained on hold.

As the months went on and restrictions were lifted, Westside responded quickly to reopen facility spaces and offer the greatest access while still keeping a close eye on health and safety for members, guests and staff. Facilities and equipment were reconfigured, activities were adapted, and programs adjusted to accommodate the latest measures and best practices.

Through it all, Westside was unswerving in its commitment to provide as many recreation opportunities as possible for Calgary’s communities when they needed it most. In recognition of members’ support, Westside offered flexible membership reactivation options that respected people’s comfort level returning to public spaces.

Westside resumed full operations in February 2022. A testament to its pandemic management, annual membership subscriptions saw no reduction and drop-in visitors have returned to preCovid levels. Determination, resilience and flexibility all played a significant role in successfully delivering Westside into a post-pandemic Calgary.