Ontario Construction News staff writer
Canadore College in North Bay has announced construction plans for an $8.5 million recreation facility.
“The proposed facility is a cornerstone of the ongoing Commerce Court Campus redevelopment plan,” said Shawn Chorney, vice president strategic infrastructure, Indigenous and learner Services. “It unlocks the potential for the expansion of other programs and services at the Commerce Court Campus while creating a new home for the College’s School of Sport and Recreation.”
The Canadore Multi-Use Recreation Facility will be an 85,000 square foot dome supporting year-round soccer, golf, baseball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, dry land training, and sport conditioning. The facility has been designed in consultation with community user groups and is rooted in a long-standing need for covered turf and hardcourt surfaces.
Also, there will be a 6,200 square foot clubhouse attached, complete with change rooms, reception and dedicated instructional/meeting space.
“The facility will also provide a foundation for an expansion of varsity and recreational sports for all ages, and is envisioned as a community recreation hub to build off of other regional sports initiatives,” said George Burton, President and CEO.
“The college is proud to lead this multi-million-dollar investment to support both our evolving academic, sport and wellness needs while doing our part to support the broader sport ecosystem of the region.”
The estimated cost of the proposed sports complex is $8.6 million and officials are hoping it will be open by September 2023 and it will double as the largest event space in the North Bay area.
“From a student perspective, I’m very excited about this recreational dome project. This new project will be a wonderful addition to the College,” said Alex Mathew, President of Canadore Student Council. “This new structure will allow individuals to focus on their physical health and wellbeing. On behalf of all the students, I would like to thank Canadore College for initiating this substantial project which will benefit the community as a whole.”