Ontario Construction News staff writer
The federal government will kick in almost $200,000 for renovations to improve accessibility at the YMCA buildings in Timmins and Sudbury.
Sudbury MP Viviane Lapointe announced the funding through FedNor and the Canada Community Revitalization Fund (CCRF), to help the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario (YMCA NEO) modernize two of its existing facilities located in Greater Sudbury and Timmins.
“The YMCA of Northeastern Ontario provides critical services to people of all ages and I am proud this investment will help make its facilities safer, greener and accessible to everyone,” Lapointe said.
“Local infrastructure investments are so important to building stronger, healthier, and more inclusive communities. This initiative delivers on all fronts, making our region a better place to live work, play and visit.”
YMCA NEO’s Sudbury facility will undergo extensive renovations to improve accessibility by adding push buttons and creating barrier-free access. Upgrades will include a new front desk area designed to increase safety and accessibility for staff, volunteers, members and citizens entering the facility.
Green and structural upgrades will boost safety and efficiency and reduce the carbon footprint of its Timmins operations. Specifically, the funding will be used to install a new roof and exterior cladding, improve insulation and upgrade florescent fixtures to high-efficiency LED lighting. Once complete, the upgrades will allow the organization to reduce energy costs and consumption, maintain services and make the facility safer for all users.
“Organizations like the YMCA of Northeastern Ontario help improve our communities and make them stronger,” Patty Hajdu, minister responsible for FedNor said in a statement. “Today’s infrastructure announcement of $195,393 for YMCA facilities looks to create safe, welcoming and accessible green spaces that will benefit the everyday lives of people living and working in Greater Sudbury, Timmins and beyond.”