12/21/2012 11:49:05 PM

December 18, 2012
The roar of construction equipment will eventually be replaced by the cheers of joyful children as the City of Toronto began construction of the York Community Centre, the first full-service community centre to be built in the former City of York.

With shovels in hand, Councillor Jaye Robinson (Ward 25 Don Valley West), Chair of the Community Development and Recreation Committee, Councillor Frank Di Giorgio (Ward 12 York South-Weston), Councillor Frances Nunziata (Ward 11 York South-Weston), and representatives of Parks, Forestry and Recreation joined members of the community to recognize the start of construction of the City's newest community centre.

"The York Community Centre has been a goal of this community and I'm pleased to see that this day has finally come," said Councillor Robinson.

The $29.5-million facility will bring the community together with a 6,503-square-metre building featuring a double gymnasium, running track, a six-lane 25-metre indoor training pool, an indoor leisure pool, weight/aerobic/dance rooms, two multi-purpose rooms, a teaching kitchen and activity rooms. The expected completion date is fall 2014.

"The new recreation centre is a huge win for our community," said Councillor Di Giorgio. "It's a place that people of all ages will access and enjoy for years to come. In the near future, community members of all ages can go swimming, participate in recreation programs and enjoy a number of fitness classes."

"I am delighted to attend this groundbreaking ceremony today," said Councillor Nunziata. "Since amalgamation, I have been working tirelessly to ensure there was funding for this project. I want to thank the City staff and community residents that participated in making this a reality. The York Community Centre will provide a great opportunity to promote physical activity and encourage healthy play, sports and cultural and community activities."

Designed to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver standing and meeting the Toronto Green Standard (TGS) Tier 1 level, the new community centre will offer the City an opportunity to build greener to lower operating costs and reduce the facility's environmental footprint. The facility is expected to have 40 per cent better performance than specified by the Model National Energy Code for Buildings, and 25 per cent lower energy costs, thereby reducing energy requirements and associated atmospheric impact.