Ontario Construction News staff writer
Construction is underway at the future Bradford-West Gwillimbury (BWG) Community Hub building, which will house local not-for-profit organizations and other community services.
The Town of BWG purchased the former school site in late 2020 to build a 28,000 sq.-ft. community hub.
The cost to build the new community hub at 177 Church St. has ballooned almost 50 per cent and council approved an additional $3.6 million recently, awarding the tender to Domm Construction of Ayton.
Last June, council authorized a budget of $6.7 million. Domm’s bid, which staff called “the strongest proposal with the lowest price,” was $8.5 million.
Councillors reasoned that the project was worth the increased speding, noting the renovation will “go back to the bricks and mortar of the building” and create a brand-new building.
Helping Hand Food Bank is the first confirmed client and will move from its smaller space at the former St. Mary’s School.
Renovations started in early May, with an expected completion date of May/June 2023.
“It is becoming more challenging by the day for them to accept, store and carry an organized inventory of donations that community members can easily access,” said Bradford West Gwillimbury Mayor Rob Keffer. “With the rapid growth of our community, there will be an increasing demand for their services well into the future and this new space will support that growth.”
Once the renovation is completed, the building will feature a commercial kitchen with expanded event space; exterior building and parking improvements; a large, open-concept lobby and reception.
