Toronto, Timmins, King Township projects share in $43M in project funding
The federal and provincial governments have committed more than $43 million in funding for three projects in Toronto, Timmins and King Township.
The lion’s share of the funding—$38 million—has been provided to the Township of King for the construction of a new recreational centre. The federal government committed more than $21 million to the project, with the province committing $17.6 million, and the township more than $14 million.
The project will see the construction of a new recreation centre that will include twin ice pad surfaces, an indoor year-round pool and track, gym equipment and multipurpose fitness studio space for yoga, aerobics, and spin classes. The recreation centre will also house a multiuse field house with operable doors to surrounding amenities, including baseball and soccer fields. The project will also explore a number of energy efficient measures for the facility such as natural ventilation, reclaiming waste heat from the refrigeration system, and an open-loop geothermal heat exchange.
The new complex will provide residents in the Township of King and surrounding communities access to modern and reliable recreational infrastructure where they can enjoy sports, maintain healthy lifestyles and take part in recreational programs and services for years to come.
"The project will be a benefit to all ages and demographics in the community featuring a double pad arena, lap and leisure pool(s), a multipurpose athletic space and other community amenities,” said King Township Mayor Steve Pellegrini. “It increases our capacity for ice users and introduces King’s first indoor aquatics space allowing access year-round. The multipurpose athletic spaces will offer something for everyone. This amazing centre will be the centrepiece in building a healthy community for years to come."
In Timmins, the federal government committed to spending $2.5 million to rebuild the La Ronde French cultural centre. The building was partially destroyed by fire in November 2015, and has faced severe challenges to delivering programming since.
Construction on the project is well underway.
Finally, in Toronto, the federal and provincial governments have earmarked $2.9 million worth of funding for upgrades and repairs to the George Bell Arena.
The project scope calls for extensive roof replacements, mechanical and electrical upgrades, and arena equipment refurbishment. Accessibility improvements will also be made to the front entrance, washrooms, and pathways from the parking area to the ice skating pad. The upgrades will extend the life of the arena, reduce operating costs, and provide recreation opportunities for community members of all ages and abilities.
"The work being funded today will extend the lifespan of the arena, which will allow residents of all ages in the surrounding York, Swansea, Toronto Junction, High Park and eastern Etobicoke communities to have improved access and programming,” said Toronto Mayor John Tory. “It is another example of how all three governments working together helps our residents and our communities."