Image from Loyalist Township Website
Loyalist Township Council recently approved the renewal of the W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre, including the construction of a new aquatic facility.
The project aims to enhance services for the growing Loyalist community and will involve the following program and performance targets:
- The construction of a new aquatic facility comprising of an 8-lane, 25 metre pool as well as a separate warm-water leisure pool;
- Undertaking accessibility upgrades throughout the existing facility, including the addition of a lift, accessible change rooms, and barrier-free viewing areas;
- Installing new aquatic change rooms, including the creation of a family change room;
- Incorporating new Indigenous Legacy Space, in collaboration with the Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Fund;
- Incorporating energy conservation measures throughout the facility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with its operations;
- Designing the building to be Net-Zero ready, meaning that the amount of energy needed to operate the building in a given year can be produced directly on site in the future, typically through the use of solar panels;
- Keeping the building operational during construction and minimizing facility and programming downtime.
Construction is scheduled to begin in Spring 2024, with substantial completion by January 2026.
The capital cost is $49.5 million, with funding secured through various sources, including Infrastructure Canada’s Green and Inclusive Community Building program.
The City of Kingston has expressed interest in contributing funds, pending an agreement. The Township will also explore additional grant opportunities.
Written by Emily Chatwood
