The YMCA of Greater Toronto is moving forward with an exciting relocation in Mississauga, with a state-of-the-art facility set to open in early 2027 inside Square One Shopping Centre. This project represents a major adaptive reuse effort, transforming a long-vacant cinema into a vibrant health and community hub—and creating significant opportunities for the construction workforce.
From Theatre to Thrive Space: Adaptive Reuse in Action
The new YMCA will occupy the space formerly home to Empire Theatres, which closed in 2014 after a short stint under Landmark Cinemas. This underutilized unit near Holt Renfrew will be transformed into a contemporary fitness and wellness facility. Phase one focuses on retrofitting the former cinema, while a second phase will follow with a new-build addition that houses a four-lane swimming pool.
Comprehensive Programming and Continued Service
The YMCA’s new location will carry forward all services currently offered at its existing Burnhamthorpe Road facility, including:
Fitness programs and classes
Licensed childcare
Day camps
Until the new facility opens, programming will continue uninterrupted at the Burnhamthorpe site. The YMCA will also maintain its broader presence in Mississauga with services including job centres, youth development programs, school nutrition initiatives, and financial aid to ensure equitable community access.
Project Team and Design Partners
A highly experienced team has been assembled to lead this project:
Bird Construction – General Contractor
MacLennan Jaunkalns Miller Architects (MJMA) – Architectural Design
Blackwell – Structural Engineering
Introba – Mechanical and Electrical Systems
Synergy Partners and Mantle Developments – Project Support
Repurposing a cinema for community use requires selective demolition, structural alterations, and retrofitting for modern mechanical systems. This project will involve skilled trades for reconfiguration, high-performance HVAC, lighting, and specialty installations for health and childcare environments.
Embedded in Square One District’s Urban Vision
Urban Toronto reports that this relocation is a key component of Oxford Properties' transformation of Square One District—an 18 million-square-foot, master-planned community set to house over 35,000 residents in 18,000 new homes. The redevelopment will also feature office towers, public parks, and direct access to the upcoming Hurontario-Main Line 10 LRT.
“Welcoming the YMCA to Square One District is a proud milestone that symbolizes the area’s ongoing evolution into a forward-thinking neighbourhood where people live, work, and play. The Y is an integral community resource, and with the support of municipal and local partners, we’re thrilled it will be at the heart of Square One as we progress our ambition to transform a shopping, entertainment and dining destination into a dynamic, well-connected, and well-amenitized mixed-use neighbourhood."
Head of Asset Management & Development at Oxford Properties | Sherif Masood
City Investment and Community Impact
The City of Mississauga is contributing $15 million to support the relocation. Deputy Mayor and Ward 4 Councillor John Kovac emphasized the long-standing partnership with the YMCA.
Kovac applauded the collaboration among the City, YMCA leadership, and Oxford Properties to ensure a long-term, accessible resource for families and individuals across the community.
Construction Outlook and Trade Opportunities
The project will be delivered in two phases:
Phase One: Interior retrofitting of the existing cinema to create multi-use spaces including fitness studios, change rooms, childcare zones, and community rooms.
Phase Two: Construction of a new four-lane pool adjacent to the original footprint, involving pool shell construction, waterproofing, and specialty MEP systems for aquatic operations.
Construction workers can expect opportunities across disciplines such as:
Demolition and framing
HVAC, plumbing, and electrical installations
Concrete and waterproofing
Finishes for community spaces and child safety standards
Rethinking Malls: A National Redevelopment Trend
The YMCA’s arrival at Square One reflects a growing trend across Canada, where underused mall spaces are being reimagined for civic and social uses. As retail footprints shrink, organizations like the YMCA are stepping into these locations to deliver much-needed services—from health to education to childcare—helping shape more holistic and integrated urban neighbourhoods.
Conclusion: Building Mississauga’s Future from the Ground Up
This new YMCA facility is more than a construction project—it’s a bold investment in the future of Mississauga’s downtown. With support from the City and Oxford Properties, the development is a blueprint for how public and private sectors can come together to meet evolving urban needs.
For the construction industry, this project presents a unique opportunity to contribute to a meaningful, community-focused redevelopment. With early 2027 as the target opening, Bird Construction, MJMA, and a diverse team of trade professionals are set to bring this vision to life—one that reflects innovation, inclusion, and long-term value for generations to come.