Canadian Canoe Museum opening delayed until winter 2024

Ontario Construction News staff writer

Construction delays have pushed the opening of the new Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough to winter 2024, officials announced last week.

The opening of the 65,000-sq. ft. museum was originally expected this fall, however, museum executive director Carolyn Hyslop says the project was impacted by construction industry.

“I am thrilled to announce that we will welcome our supporters to the new museum and campus the weekend of May 11th for our grand opening celebrations,” Hyslop said. “While the pandemic and its impacts on the construction industry have affected our timeline, it has not affected the spirit and enthusiasm for this project.

The issues include material and labour shortages, supply chain disruptions and scheduling for the $40-million project.

“It will be worth the wait when visitors can explore this beautiful facility and our many new offerings and then continue to the lakefront for a memorable paddling experience.”

Chandos Construction started work on the $25-million project in October 2021 and the project reached a milestone recently, moving more than 100 canoes and kayaks into the new exhibition hall.

It is being built through integrated project deliveru (IPD), and will include a hybrid of a steel and timber frame and feature:

• An integrated collection hall that will be able to display all of the museum’s watercraft in a Class “A” controlled museum environment – an artifact conservation standard.
• A 17,000 sq. ft. exhibition hall featuring a new exhibits.
• A lakefront events and education centre with views of the lake.
• An authentic artisan and canoe-building studios that will offer hands-on learning for youth and adults.
• An accessible library and research room.
• A café with a fireplace, adjacent to the lakefront terrace.
• A canoe house with floating docks to accommodate on-water and outdoor educational programming.