After what was the largest capital project in the City of Kitchener’s history, the city is preparing to open the doors of its new Cowan Recreation Centre at RBJ Schlegel Park, slated to open before the winter rolls around.
The city has set an official opening date of Saturday, Nov. 14, for the Cowan Recreation Centre.
Originally designed to respond to the growing and changing community landscape, the new centre is set to feature expanded access to indoor sport and recreation opportunities, while creating a “welcoming place for people to get active, spend time together and build connections with others.”
“The opening of Cowan Recreation Centre at RBJ Schlegel Park is one of the most significant investments in community infrastructure in Kitchener’s history,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic.
“This facility will help more children learn to swim, give families more opportunities to be active together, provide welcoming spaces for residents of all abilities, and bring people together through sport, recreation and community events.”
The project as a whole was pegged at close to $174 million, with the city securing much of the funds by way of provincial and national grants, as well as various investments and donations from multiple organizations.
The centre is said to include a quad gymnasium, a FIFA-sized indoor turf field that can be divided into four playing areas, two cricket practice nets, competition and leisure pools, and an indoor walking track.
“Together, these spaces will support a wide variety of sports like basketball, volleyball, soccer, lacrosse, cricket, futsal, pickleball, badminton and swimming,” the city said in a release.
“For local sports organizations, this additional space will create opportunities to expand programs, accommodate more participants and help reduce waitlists. For residents, it means more chances to discover a new activity, or to continue playing a sport they already enjoy.”
The local venue is also expected to be able to hold various provincial and national competitions, tournaments, and events, with the city hoping it will help support local businesses and generate millions in economic activity.
“From the very beginning, this facility has been designed with the people who will use it most top of mind: players, families, fans, coaches, partners and volunteers,” said Michael May, Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Kitchener.
“Whether someone is attending their first swim lesson, playing in a basketball tournament, walking the indoor track or cheering on a family member, we want their experience to be welcoming, accessible and enjoyable.”
The opening in November will kick off with a celebration, open to residents throughout the community. Beginning at 9 a.m., the free community event will feature “something for all ages.”
That includes an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided tours of the facility, free public swims and sports activities, family-friendly entertainment including bouncy castles, and more.
The full list of details around the grand opening and the Cowan Recreation Centre as a whole can be found on the City of Kitchener’s website.
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