Image renderings released of future $99M Civic Centre set to transform downtown Bradford

An estimated $99 million Civic Centre is set to rise in Bradford, Ont. promising to bring new energy, opportunity, and community spirit to the heart of town. (Renderings/Town of Bradford)

An estimated $99 million Civic Centre is set to rise in downtown Bradford promising to bring new energy, opportunity, and community spirit to the heart of town.

For nearly three decades, residents say they have dreamed of a central space that brings town services, recreation, culture, and community events to one electric hub.

That vision is finally taking shape right here in our region.

The new 142,000-square-foot Civic Centre located at 125 Simcoe Road hopes to bring hundreds of daily visitors and staff to the Bradford area.

Town officials say this project will support local shops and restaurants, attract new businesses, and make downtown a more vibrant destination.

According to the town, the centre will also honour the site’s legacy as a gathering place by creating new ways for people to come together.

What’s Coming

Here’s what residents can look forward to at the new facility:

• A transitional performing arts theatre and council chamber (378-seat) for concerts, dance recitals, plays, cultural events, public meetings, and more
• A multi-sport gymnasium and fitness centre that provide more space for some of our most popular sports, like basketball and pickleball
• Meeting rooms, multi-purpose spaces, and a central lobby available to local businesses, community groups and residents for public gatherings
• Town administration offices, including a Customer Service Centre on the main level

The project is currently 30 per cent through the design phase, with procurement and construction up next. Image renderings of the building spaces have been released to the public.

Price tag

Based on current design estimates, the Civic Centre’s construction cost is pegged at $99 million, with roughly $13 million covered by development charges.

Council has also been setting aside over $730,000 each year in a reserve fund since 2019 to help fund the project responsibly.

Why now?

Right now, town services are spread across 10 offices in eight locations which can be confusing for residents and costly for operations.

The new state-of-the-art Civic Centre will bring everything together, improving convenience, efficiency, and collaboration - according to the town.

Residents will be able to access everything from permits to recreation services in a single, welcoming space designed to serve the community for generations to come.

Looking ahead

With design work well underway, the Civic Centre is on track to move into detailed design and construction.

The town states cost estimates are trending below earlier forecasts thanks to careful refinements, and the project remains within the budget established back in 2020.