Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Herbert H. Carnegie Centennial Centre in North York is getting a $2.8 million makeover with funding from all three levels of government.
The project includes the replacement of the existing rink slab, windows, doors, frames, flooring, Zamboni slab, millwork, benches, electrical and mechanical systems, plumbing fixtures, interior and exterior signs and security systems, as well as upgrades to washrooms and change rooms. A new elevator to the second floor of the arena will also be installed.
The project will result in improved recreation infrastructure for approximately 60,000 people annually.
“Investing in community, culture, and recreational infrastructure is essential to creating communities that are inclusive and sustainable,” said Ya’ara Saks, York Centre MP.
“The improvements to the Herbert H. Carnegie Arena ensure the facility is more accessible to the users and visitors who enjoy sporting and social activities onsite. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country, and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities.”
Formerly the North York Centennial Arena, this facility was renamed in 2001 to honour the former hockey star Herbert H. Carnegie (1919-2012). Born in Toronto, Carnegie was one of the first black semi-professional hockey players in Canada. In 1954, he founded one of Canada’s first hockey schools, and through his work in training young hockey players, Carnegie became a member of both the Order of Ontario and the Order of Canada.
“More than 60,000 people use this facility every year, and I personally have fond memories of bringing my son here to play hockey as a child. I look forward to it being upgraded so it can continue to be an important community resource for future generations,” said Eglinton-Lawrence MPP Robin Martin.
The Government of Canada is investing $1,134,159 in this project through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream (CCRIS) of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is providing $944,187, while the City of Toronto is contributing $757,051.
Over the next 10 years, Ontario is investing about $320 million and Canada is investing approximately $407 million under the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
Funding supports the construction of new facilities and upgrades to existing facilities that improve community infrastructure (community centres, and libraries), and support upgrades to recreational venues (arenas, and both indoor and outdoor recreational spaces) and cultural spaces (theatres, museums).