Some weaseley statements:
“UBC’s existing aquatic facilities (including the Aquatic Centre, which began operation in the late 1970s, and Empire Pool, built in 1954) are reaching the end of their useful lives.”
* This was never substantiated. In fact, in the documents I read, there was no real problem with the pool. It said the structure was fine and a few systems replacements were needed, although they didn’t elaborate or cite their source for that (they usually do). So, no real urgent problems, from what I could tell. Upgrades are doubtful in the same ballpark as the est. $37 million price tag for a new facility.

“Alongside the need to ensure a new facility can compete with similar centres in other Post Secondary institutions, a new centre will be able to adequately service the growing residential neighbourhoods on campus. A balance between a competition facility and a neighbourhood leisure facility is a mandate of the final program.”
* No substantiation was offered that a bigger pool was needed for new residents. I find the other excuse, “we want a new pool for big swim meets”, not very compelling.

What’s unique here is not what was done but the degree to which this has been unraveled. Either someone’s lost their touch or the students are more on the ball than usual.