Ontario Construction News staff writer
Several municipalities will share over $35 million from the federal and provincial governments for recreation and community centre infrastructure projects.
One of the largest projects is the Tillsonburg Community Centre rehabilitation at a cost of about $5 million. Work includes replacing the pool area’s tile floors, deck and line, roof, mechanical systems and lighting. The change room will be expanded, and a new ramp entry will be added to the pool. Also, the plan includes the construction of a new 3,600 sq. ft. outdoor splash pad.
The Town of Hearst also plans to rehabilitate the Claude-Larose Recreation Centre, a project estimated to cost close to $5 million. Improvements at the arena and pool will cut energy costs and prolong the infrastructure’s lifespan as well as improving accessibility.
Funding is also going to the Township of Hornepayne in Northern Ontario to upgrade the hockey arena, curling club and youth space and expand the Community Centre to add a seniors’ space with a community kitchen, library, fitness facility and multi-use gym and meeting space. The estimate cost of the construction project is over $4 million. “Ensuring Ontarians have access to recreational infrastructure is vital for community well-being and development,” federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine McKenna said in a news release.
“Today’s investment in 35 recreation, community, and cultural projects across Ontario will provide thousands of residents access to modern recreational infrastructure where they can come together to create new connections, maintain healthy and active lifestyles and enjoy valued social and recreational programs.”
Several of the recreational infrastructure projects are upgrades to community or recreation centres, trail systems and parks, or accessibility improvements to various facilities.
The Erin Community Centre will get a $2.6 million upgrade, including the installation of a fixed emergency generator, health and safety improvements to the electrical, HVAC and refrigeration systems, roof replacement and a new alarm system. The plan also includes accessibility improvements to the elevator and washroom.
The full list of projects is available online.