Peter Chirico says North Bay's new recreation and community centre is a "game-changer" for North Bay.
Approved by city council in November, the $63-million facility broke ground on Dec. 6 at the site of the Steve Omischl Sports Complex in the city's south end and is expected to open in August 2026.
"This is the first time the City of North Bay has built something of this magnitude since 1955 when Memorial Gardens was built, so this will change the landscape for our kids, for our grandkids, and certainly for generations to come," Chirico told the media prior to the groundbreaking.
"It is a community space. The sign says it all — 'A place for everyone' — and that is what it truly will be, a community centre for everyone, and we cannot wait until August of 2026 when this thing officially opens."
Chirico credits council for making it happen.
"It was council that said, 'Let's get this done,' and that was one of their biggest priorities to get this facility underway, get it built, get it open for our community and of course the dedication of all of council and our deputy mayor," Chirico said.
The fully accessible building will feature two standard hockey-sized rinks, barrier-free changerooms, a walking and running track, along with warm spectator viewing areas, and a community room and meeting space.
A transit pickup and dropoff zone will be located at the main entrance, and the parking lot will include spaces for 433 cars, and buses.
EllisDon was hired last May as the contractor.
The project is being supported by a total federal contribution of over $35 million, covering more than 50 per cent of the project costs. This includes more than $25.7 million from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program and more than $9.4 million from the city’s strategic allocation of its annual Canada Community-Building Fund over several years.
The city is also directing $1.5 million in contributions from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation toward the project, funds received as part of its share of revenue from hosting Cascades Casino.
