Monday, June 16, 2025
The City of Toronto broke ground on a new state-of-the-art, 80,000 square foot net zero community and recreation centre in western North York.
The Western North York Community Recreation & Child Care Centre is on track to be one of the City’s first net zero energy aquatic facility, highlighting the City’s commitment to reducing local greenhouse gases.
“We’re building more community centres and spaces for families to enjoy. The Western North York Community Recreation & Child Care Centre is a great example of the City’s commitment to build stronger neighbourhoods in North York and beyond. And having a net-zero energy facility is something all residents can be proud of,” said Mayor Olivia Chow.
The facility is expected to open in late 2028 with amenities to include:
- a six-lane, 25-metre lap pool
- a leisure pool
- a classroom to teach aquatic programs
- change rooms
- a childcare centre designed to accommodate up to 62 children
- a teaching kitchen
- art studio
- community spaces
- social amphitheatre
- a multi-sport gymnasium
- a walking track
- two fitness/dance studios
- a multi-media space
- a STEM lab
- a computer lab
“From reducing emissions to bringing a community together to high-quality accessible child care spaces, this centre is an important facility for residents. I look forward to seeing it operational,” said Councillor Paula Fletcher (Toronto-Danforth), chair of the Infrastructure and Environment Committee.
The Centre will provide enhanced amenities and replace the existing Carmine Stefano Community Centre which will remain open until the new Centre is operational. The City developed the design and programming of the Centre following extensive community consultation.
The Centre will have a system to draw water from under the ground to help heat and cool the building efficiently. It also has low carbon concrete, an advanced stormwater management system and a solar system to supply most of the building’s electricity.
“Following three years of community consultation, I’m excited to see us break ground on an enhanced recreation and child care centre to better connect our diverse and growing communities. From children to seniors, this centre can be a recreational hub for everyone,” said Councillor Anthony Perruzza (Black Creek-Humber River).
The Western North York Community Recreation & Child Care Centre recently received the 2025 RAIC Research & Innovation in Architecture Award for excellence in research and/or innovation in architectural practice, technology or pedagogy.
Featured image: (City of Toronto)
