Ontario Construction News staff writer
A ceremonial beam signing marked a major milestone Monday in the construction of the new Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex, as provincial and local officials gathered to celebrate progress on the $160-million project.
The final structural beam was signed and hoisted into place at the future site of a 222,000-square-foot facility located at RBJ Schlegel Park in southwest Kitchener. Once complete, the complex will include an aquatic centre, four-turf field house, cricket practice nets, elevated walking track, multipurpose rooms — and a multi-purpose quad-gymnasium now backed by $10 million in new provincial funding.
Funding comes through Ontario’s Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund, which supports upgrades and new builds across the province.
“The beam signing is a visible sign of the progress being made here, and a symbol of what’s to come — a first-of-its-kind facility for our city,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “This space will not only support active living for residents of all ages, but it will also attract major tournaments and help drive economic growth.”
The province previously contributed $8.1 million toward the first phase of the project through the federal-provincial Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
Multiplex Canada is serving as construction manager for the project. Structural steel is being supplied and installed by Walters Inc., including long-span trusses, decking and stairs. Both firms are part of the Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) team working with the City of Kitchener, architects, consultants and local partners.
Construction started in 2022 and remains on schedule for completion in late summer 2026.
“As one of the fastest-growing areas in the province, Kitchener needs modern, inclusive recreation spaces,” said Harris. “We’re proud to support a project that will serve families, youth and seniors for decades to come.”
More details about the complex are available at: kitchener.ca/kirc.
