EllisDon Corporation has embarked on an exciting journey with the groundbreaking of North Bay’s $63-million Recreation and Community Centre. This ambitious project is not just a milestone for the city but also a significant achievement for Canada’s construction industry, particularly for the workers and professionals involved in its innovative design and execution.
With completion slated for August 2026, the centre promises to be a modern, accessible, and environmentally conscious facility that will serve the community for decades to come. Here’s a detailed look at its construction and design features, itemized to highlight what this project entails for workers and residents alike.
1. Project Overview
- Location: North Bay, Ontario
- Cost: $63 million
- Completion Date: August 2026
- Lead Contractor: EllisDon Corporation
- Funding: Supported by over $35 million in federal contributions, including:
- $25.7 million from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program.
- $9.4 million from the City’s strategic allocation of the Canada Community-Building Fund.
- $1.5 million from Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) contributions.
The federal and municipal funding underscores the project's importance as a community and environmental investment.
2. Sustainability and Zero Carbon Goals
The Recreation and Community Centre will be one of Canada’s first net carbon zero recreational facilities. It has been designed to meet Version 3 of the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building Design Standard, showcasing the following sustainable features:
- Energy Efficiency: Construction methods and building systems are focused on minimizing energy consumption.
- Environmentally Sustainable Materials: The use of sustainable materials ensures reduced carbon footprint during construction and operation.
- Long-Term Environmental Benefits: The facility is positioned to address future environmental challenges, making it a forward-thinking model for similar projects.
3. Innovative Design Features
EllisDon is utilizing a progressive design-build process to achieve a balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness. The facility’s design includes:
- Two Ice Pads: Standard hockey-sized rinks to accommodate local sports and recreational activities.
- 14 Dressing Rooms: Built for year-round indoor and outdoor activities.
- Walking and Running Track: A fully accessible indoor track for fitness enthusiasts.
- Warm Spectator Viewing Areas: Comfortable spaces for visitors to enjoy events and activities.
- Spacious Community Room and Meeting Spaces: Flexible areas for community gatherings, workshops, and events.
4. Accessibility and Modern Amenities
The Recreation and Community Centre is designed to be fully accessible, ensuring inclusivity for people of all abilities. Key features include:
- Barrier-Free Changerooms: Supporting the needs of all users, including those with mobility challenges.
- Transit-Friendly Access: A dedicated pickup and drop-off zone located at the main entrance.
- Ample Parking: Space for 433 cars and buses, making the facility easily accessible for large events and day-to-day use.
5. Impact on Construction Workers
The innovative design and construction of this facility offer a range of opportunities and challenges for workers in the construction industry:
- Sustainable Construction Practices: The net-zero focus demands expertise in advanced building systems, such as energy-efficient HVAC installations and sustainable material usage.
- Complex Multi-Use Spaces: Constructing diverse spaces, such as ice rinks and walking tracks, requires precision and coordination across multiple disciplines, including concrete specialists, carpenters, and HVAC technicians.
- Progressive Design-Build Approach: Workers and subcontractors will be closely involved in iterative design processes, promoting collaboration and adaptability throughout the project.
6. Community and Economic Benefits
The Recreation and Community Centre is a transformative project for North Bay, providing modern amenities while boosting local infrastructure:
- Economic Stimulus: The $63 million project injects significant funding into the local economy, creating jobs during construction and ongoing operations.
- Support from OLG: Contributions from Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation highlight the broader provincial support for this initiative. As Kathleen Devine of OLG noted, the project aligns with efforts to reinvest in community-strengthening initiatives.
- Long-Term Community Impact: With accessible design and year-round functionality, the facility will enhance quality of life for North Bay residents, offering spaces for recreation, wellness, and social gatherings.
7. Timeline and Next Steps
Construction began in May 2024, with EllisDon leading the charge. The project’s timeline includes critical phases:
- Initial Groundbreaking: Work commenced in May 2024.
- Ongoing Construction: Teams will focus on the structural components, sustainable systems, and interior design.
- Finalization: Expected completion by August 2026, with the facility ready for public use.
Conclusion
The North Bay Recreation and Community Centre is a testament to the power of innovative design and sustainable construction. For workers, the project represents a unique opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking facility that sets new standards in net-zero construction. For the community, it promises to be a hub for recreation, wellness, and environmental leadership.
As EllisDon pushes forward with its progressive design-build approach, the collaboration between construction teams, local authorities, and funding agencies highlights the collective effort needed to bring such a visionary project to life. By 2026, North Bay will proudly host one of the most modern and sustainable recreation centres in Canada, benefiting generations to come.
