Ontario Construction News staff writer
The federal and provincial governments are contributing $18 million for the construction of the RBJ Schlegel Aquatic Centre in Kitchener.
The City of Kitchener is contributing more than $6.5 million toward the project which will include the construction of an eight-lane, 25-metre long pool with a removable floor and ramp access, bleacher seating, community use multi-purpose rooms, public washrooms, and food and beverage services. Once complete, the new aquatic centre will provide greater access to recreational facilities.
“Now more than ever, staying active and healthy is an essential part of our mental and physical wellness. With the construction of the new RBJ Schlegel Aquatic Centre, Kitchener residents will have a new facility to swim, play sports, and socialize for many years to come,” said Kitchener MP Tim Louis.
Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic said building new community facilities will be important because the area is expected to grow significantly.
“Waterloo region is the second fastest growing metropolitan area in Canada. Southwest Kitchener is the fastest growing area in our region, and is expected to double in population by 2041,” said Vrbanovic at a virtual announcement Tuesday.
“Existing pools will not meet future growing demand and this trend would only get worse if it wasn’t for this new announcement today,” he said.
Over the next 10 years, the Government of Ontario is investing approximately $320 million across the province, and the federal government is investing approximately $407 million under the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
“Recreational infrastructure projects like these are so important to people and families. From swimming lessons to community events, this will be a wonderful new hub for local residents to enjoy,” said Laurie Scott, Ontario’s minister of infrastructure.