Ontario Construction News staff writer
Toronto has broken ground on the Western North York Community Recreation & Child Care Centre, an 80,000-sq. ft. structure that will be one of the city’s first net-zero energy aquatic centres.
Expected to open in late 2028, the facility will replace the aging Carmine Stefano Community Centre and bring a wide range of new amenities to one of Toronto’s fastest-growing and most diverse areas. The project also reinforces Toronto’s commitment to climate action through sustainable design and operations, says a statement from the city.
The city awarded the construction contract to Pomerleau Inc. earlier this year.
“This is a great example of the City’s commitment to build stronger neighbourhoods in North York and beyond,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “And having a net-zero energy facility is something all residents can be proud of.”
Planned amenities include:
- six-lane, 25-metre lap pool
- leisure pool and aquatic programming space
- childcare centre for up to 62 children
- multi-sport gymnasium
- walking track
- fitness and dance studios
- STEM lab, computer lab, and multi-media space
- Community gathering areas, including a teaching kitchen, art studio, social amphitheatre, and meeting rooms
The new centre was designed following three years of public consultation and is being celebrated not just for its functionality, but also for its green building design.
It features a geothermal system for heating and cooling, low-carbon concrete, a solar array to power much of the building’s operations, and an advanced stormwater management system. These sustainability measures helped the project earn the 2025 Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Research & Innovation in Architecture Award.
“From reducing emissions to bringing a community together to high-quality accessible child care spaces, this centre is an important facility for residents,” said Councillor Paula Fletcher, Chair of the Infrastructure and Environment Committee.
Councillor Anthony Perruzza, who represents the Black Creek–Humber River area, said the centre will be a hub for people of all ages. “From children to seniors, this centre can be a recreational hub for everyone,” he said.
The current Carmine Stefano Community Centre will remain open until the new facility is completed.
More information about Toronto’s climate initiatives can be found on the city’s TransformTO Net Zero Strategy website.
