Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Kitchener and members of the Kitchener Rotary Club came together last night on Roos Island in Victoria Park to mark the grand re-opening of the newly renovated Rotary Bandstand. The long-awaited renovation, funded by a generous donation from the Rotary Club, aims to preserve and enhance a beloved landmark that has been central to the community for over a century.
Later this year, the park will see further enhancements with the re-opening of The Boathouse, a new music and dining venue that promises to add to the vibrant atmosphere of Victoria Park.
“For over a century, the bandstand on Roos Island has been a hub of community connectivity and a place that has welcomed generations of Kitchener residents and visitors,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic during the celebration. “As we celebrate the revitalization and reopening of Roos Island, we’re very grateful for the generosity of Kitchener Rotary to help renovate the historical bandstand so it can continue to be a place for gatherings and live performances, for our whole community, for years to come.”
The renovation project included significant upgrades to both the exterior and the electrical system of the bandstand. In addition to these improvements, the surrounding landscape has been enhanced with a new accessible pathway, fresh plantings, and additional seating. The bandstand, located in the heart of Victoria Park and surrounded by the tranquil waters of Victoria Park Lake, remains a central feature of the park, offering a picturesque setting for year-round enjoyment.
“The idea of funding the refurbishment of the bandstand became one that we thought would symbolically continue to reflect our legacy and our promise,” said Adrian DeCoo, the 100th President of Kitchener Rotary. “The history of the bandstand is even longer than our 100 years of service to the community. It seems fitting that we should build on that history. Like Rotary, the bandstand exists to serve all in the community.”
Residents and visitors are invited to experience the revitalized Rotary Bandstand during their next visit to Victoria Park.
For more information, visit kitchener.ca/VictoriaPark