Sophie Schmidt Field at W.J. Mouat Secondary in September 2025. (Image Credit: Abbotsford School District)
Recreation and Support

Abbotsford signs new agreement with SD34 to boost access to facilities, programs

Sep 27, 2026 | 11:25 AM

ABBOTSFORD — The City of Abbotsford and Abbotsford School District have marked a new stage in their long-standing partnership with a new master joint-use agreement signed this past week.

The updated agreement now includes changes such as City and community use of school gymnasiums and elimination of fees for ancillary items like skate and helmet rentals during school visits.

“Council values recreation and support facilities, amenities and activities that connect us,” said Abbotsford Mayor Ross Siemens. “This updated agreement is an important step in strengthening our partnership with the Abbotsford School District and ensuring residents continue to benefit from accessible recreational opportunities.”

It also supports enhancing maintenance practices for sports fields within SD34, with rest periods for District sports fields now including June and September to promote healthier playing surfaces and field quality over time.

Community access to the fields during rest periods will be available for discussion on a case-by-case basis, as with current practices during the summer.

“This agreement is good for our students, families and the community, and strengthens our partnership with the City,” said Stan Petersen, Abbotsford Board of Education chair. “It reflects the work of City and School District staff to find practical ways to make better use of our shared facilities, reduce barriers and improve access for our community.”

The agreement is set to come into effect on January 1, 2027, to allow completion of existing service commitments and ensure a smooth transition.