North Bay breaks ground on $63M rec centre

The City of North Bay officially broke ground Thursday on the recreation and community centre at the Steve Omischl Sports Field Complex on Lakeshore Drive. (Supplied)

The City of North Bay officially broke ground Thursday on the recreation and community centre at the Steve Omischl Sports Field Complex on Lakeshore Drive.

"The $63 million project marks a significant milestone for the community, promising modern and accessible spaces to support recreation and wellness for decades to come," the city said in a news release.

"The recreation and community centre is being supported by a total federal contribution of over $35 million, covering more than 50 per cent of the project costs. This includes over $25.7 million from the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program and over $9.4 million from the city’s strategic allocation of its annual Canada Community-Building Fund over several years."

The project will include two ice pads, a community room, a walking track and 14 dressing rooms to accommodate indoor and outdoor activities.

The centre "will provide the community of North Bay with an innovative, accessible and sustainable place to come together, learn and play for many generations," Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota said in the release.

"This centre paves the way for sustainable and carbon neutral infrastructure and reflects our commitment to a more inclusive and environmentally friendly future."

"After years of hard work and dedication, this facility will finally become a reality,” Mayor Peter Chirico is quoted as saying.

"It will be a welcoming space for everyone, where residents of all ages and abilities can come together for sports, recreation, and social activities."

The city is also spending $1.5 million on the project from funds it received as part of its share of revenue from hosting Cascades Casino.

EllisDon Corporation, the project’s lead contractor, is using a progressive design-build process to balance cost-effectiveness with functionality. Construction is scheduled for completion in August 2026.

The centre will be one of the first net carbon zero recreational facilities in Canada.

"Breaking ground today is an exciting step forward for our community," said Coun. Justine Mallah, Chair of Community Services.

"This facility, combined with the outdoor fields, will become a true hub for activity – a place where people can gather, connect, and enjoy everything it offers year-round."