Ontario Construction News staff writer
North Bay City Council has approved the construction of a new sports complex with a budget of $63 million. The vote at a special meeting ended more than 12 years of planning and debate.
In May 2024 EllisDon was selected to design and build the recreation complex located at the Steve Omischl Sports Complex on Lakeshore Drive. The design includes two NHL-sized ice rinks, a walking track, a community room, and other amenities. The design will be a net-zero energy building, qualifying for $26 million in federal funding from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings fund to help offset the cost.
The $63 million budget includes $61.4 million for construction, $1.1 million in contingency funds, and $500,000 in internal city costs. The original budget was $59.5 million for design and construction plus an additional $0.5 million for internal costs.
Construction is expected to start this year and be completed by August 2026.
One councillor voted against the proposal, citing concerns about its affordability and long-term sustainability, but supporters talked about the need to modernize the city’s recreational infrastructure.
“This is about investing in modern, functional infrastructure that will benefit everyone,” said Coun. Justine Mallah.
