The Repsol Sports Centre or formally known as the Talisman Centre, built in 1983, spans approximately 25,000 square feet of cardio and weight training space, has an Olympic calibre dive tank, a 200-metre running track, a steam room, and an on-site cafe. Adding to the abundance of features, the facility is one of only two locations in the world with the ability to host international synchronized swimming competitions.
Williams Engineering (WE) was initially involved by the City of Calgary to complete an investigation of the existing building to determine an appropriate roof replacement strategy and advise on lifecycle upgrades. The project was set to be completed in two concurrent phases. Phase one entailed roof replacement and mechanical and electrical upgrades. Phase two included lighting and locker room upgrades, sound system improvements, renovations to the existing twin dive towers, and structural repairs.
WE also played an instrumental role in creating quality assurance protocols for the project. The mechanical systems for the 6-inch diameter fabric duct supply and return air system is unprecedented and may be the only one of its kind in the world.
This equipment required additional structural support to be installed into the architectural elements of the building. Supporting the massive equipment and preventing vibrations within the steel framing was a significant feat of engineering and is one of the project’s most noteworthy accomplishments to date.
Design objectives were understandably complex as this project involved expertise from multiple fields of engineering. The Repsol Sports Centre upgrades and renovations are an ambitious venture and a significant community achievement.
