Kitchener receives $6M boost from feds for net zero library project
Kitchener’s SouthWest Public Library project has received a funding boost of just under $6 million from the federal government.
Kitchener South—Hespeler MP Valerie Bradford announced the funding on May 24 alongside Kitchener Public Library CEO Mary Chevreau.
The new energy efficient library will meet net-zero carbon building standards and exceed the highest accessibility standards. It will draw 100 percent of its energy from renewable sources, which include solar panels and geothermal technology. With its single-storey design, low shelving with wide aisles, and barrier-free parking, the new library will be fully accessible for everyone to enjoy.
Once complete, the building will provide a space for groups to meet, individuals to work and study and for children to play. The learning gardens and commercial kitchen will provide a hands-on experience for patrons to learn and explore food literacy from "farm to table".
"We are committed to the sustainability of our services, spaces and resources,” said Chevreau. “With this financial support from Infrastructure Canada, we are proud that Kitchener Public Library will be the first in Kitchener, Ontario and one of the first in Canada to build a net-zero and carbon neutral public facility."
The federal government contributing $5,952,060 to the project through its Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GICB). The City of Kitchener is kicking in around $8 million more to cover the expected total project costs of $14 million.
The GICB program helps ensure community facilities are inclusive, accessible, and have a long service life, while also helping Canada move towards its net-zero objectives by 2050. It is providing $1.5 billion over five years towards green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades.