The City of North Bay has announced the start of construction on the long-anticipated Recreation and Community Centre at the Steve Omischl Sports Field Complex on Lakeshore Drive.

The $63-million facility has been designed to meet Version 3 of the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building Design Standard, and will include two ice pads, a large community room, a walking track and 14 dressing rooms.

The project is being supported by a total federal contribution of over $35 million, covering more than 50 percent of the project costs. This includes over $25.7 million from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program and over $9.4 million from the city’s strategic allocation of its annual Canada Community-Building Fund over several years.

“After years of hard work and dedication, this facility will finally become a reality,” said Mayor Peter Chirico. “It will be a welcoming space for everyone, where residents of all ages and abilities can come together for sports, recreation, and social activities.”

The city is also directing $1.5 million in contributions from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation toward the Recreation and Community Centre project – funds received as part of its share of revenue from hosting Cascades Casino.

EllisDon Corporation, the project’s lead contractor, is using a progressive design-build process to balance cost-effectiveness with functionality. Construction is scheduled for completion in August 2026.

The centre will be one of the first net carbon zero recreational facilities in Canada. This means it will be environmentally sustainable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective – all while positioning the city to meet future environmental challenges.