Cambridge City Council has approved a partnership framework for the design, development and operation of a $93 million community hub that will include a new recreation complex, a public library, two elementary schools and a childcare facility.
“This phenomenal partnership allows us to create a true community hub that will meet the current and future needs of our growing City. The Recreation Complex is a critical piece of infrastructure for not only today and tomorrow’s generations, but our economy as we look to future sport tourism opportunities,” said Mayor Kathryn McGarry.
A feasibility study examined joint-use opportunities between the City of Cambridge, Idea Exchange (Cambridge Public Library), Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB), and Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB). The study explored conceptual design approaches to maximize community benefits, efficiencies and opportunities.
Council agreed with the recommended approach to locate two separate buildings on the joint site with shared amenities. The two schools will share one facility, and the Recreation Complex and Idea Exchange will share the second facility. The two facilities will frame a community park.
“The Waterloo Catholic District School Board has for many years looked forward to building a new school in this important area of Cambridge,” said Loretta Notten, Director of Education, Waterloo Catholic District School Board. “To be able to do that now – in partnership with the City of Cambridge, Idea Exchange and the Waterloo Region District School Board – is a great example of Waterloo Region’s “barn raising” spirit in action. We are honoured and excited to be part of this visionary project.”
The facilities will operate independently, but will be designed to share outdoor space and amenities. This also allows the partners to proceed with design and construction at their own pace.
The future joint-use campus will offer educational, recreational and cultural activities for all ages in a rapidly developing community. The 32.5 acre site is located on city-owned land, north of the intersection of Dundas Street South and Branchton Road.
The site is bordered by Moffat Creek and a vegetated wetland buffer, which allows an opportunity for naturalized play for school students and community trails. At the east boundary of the site, there are plans for a future regional road.
Significant growth is anticipated for the area, including the SouthPoint residential subdivision. Once the area is fully developed, over 25,000 residents will be within a 15-minute walking distance from the site.
“It is very exciting to see this new community hub take shape with all the community partners. It will be a place where lifelong learning, play, and recreation go hand in hand. Our new location will include spaces for reading, studying, making and collaborating while offering innovative programs, vibrant collections, and digital resources for all visitors,” said Gary Price, chair, Idea Exchange Board of Trustees.
To encourage active transportation, the City is planning bike lanes and multi-use trails. As well, Grand River Transit plans to extend its local bus route to this site.
In addition to the library, the Recreation Complex will include a 10-lane, 25m swimming pool and warm water leisure pool, gymnasiums, running track and multi-purpose rooms. The Recreation Complex is expected to be completed in 2025.
There will be opportunities for public engagement and feedback as the design concept and more detailed site plan are finalized.