The buzz about Bracebridge’s new multi-use community centre’s sports components and library is growing.
Library and multi-sport enthusiasts alike were excited to recently learn the Town, due to $16.8 million in funding support from the Province, can now proceed with the construction of the Bracebridge Public Library and the Multi-Sport Field House, along with the previously
approved arena, community hall, and lobby.
On June 28th, Premier Doug Ford announced provincial funding support for the construction of the Bracebridge Public Library and the Multi-Sport Field House as part of the overall Bracebridge Multi-Use Community Centre.
“Congratulations on securing the funding for moving forward with the Multi-Use Community Centre – what great news for the community – we are delighted that our indoor lawn bowling, or “short mat” program will have a new home,” says Sally Mills, President Muskoka Lawn Bowling Club. “Our short mat program is important to so many (mostly senior) members, as it provides a much-needed source of fun, socializing and gentle physical activity during our long winters. Thanks so much for all the work you have put into this project. Well done!”
“The ‘thing’ I’m most looking forward to in our new library/community centre (artist’s rendition below) is ‘space’ – space to hold meetings, space to browse for reference materials and entertainment, space for children to play and learn, space for a game of cribbage, space to increase our collections, dedicated space for local history, music, crafts and lectures,” adds Barb Hutchinson, Bracebridge Public Library Chair. “This new space promises all that and more and we can hardly wait.”
The vibrant, accessible, 11,500 square metre community centre includes a 1,000 seat arena, modern public library, community auditorium, indoor multi-sport field house, common lobby, 330 parking stalls, outdoor play spaces and trails and an area retained for a future second arena to accommodate the community’s growth projections.
“My family and I are looking forward to a larger book selection and expanded services at the new library,” says Colleen Manary, library patron and member of the Friends of the Bracebridge Public Library. “My preteens are excited about the Makerspace and digital media lab, as well as a larger Young Adult selection. I am looking forward to new workshops and a modernized space for staff and patrons, as well as the feeling of being a real community hub that is accessible for all.”
“It was with great excitement that our organization received the news about the provincial funding for the new community centre,” says Jan Olsson, Technical Director of Breakers Basketball. “The opportunities created for youth, from individual skill development to the hosting of inter-community competitions, have just taken a huge step forward! Congratulations to the Town of Bracebridge!”
The safe, accessible spaces will support present and future needs for community engagement. Individuals and families can participate in health, wellness, sport, recreation, learning, personal development and culture and entertainment activities. The common areas, both indoor and outdoor, encourage both active and passive participation, as well as safe spaces for interacting, mixing and meeting.
“The Bracebridge Public Library has been my home away from home throughout my youth and high school years,” says Leah Perron, long-time library user. “During those recent years, I spent countless hours volunteering and working with the Children’s & Youth Services Librarian. I am looking forward to this new library where the Children’s and Young Adult areas will be more open and brighter with lots of natural light, comfy furniture in cozy areas that offer some privacy for small gatherings. Gathering/meeting rooms facing a common area with glass walls and doors (somewhat soundproof) for games night, such as Dungeons and Dragons night, book club gatherings, musical guests, crafts, and more.”
“As a High School Baseball Academy, based out of Bracebridge, the announcement of funding for the new community centre was welcome news,” says Joe Hickes, Team President of Muskoka Outlaws. “This building will give our players a permanent location to continue to pursue their passion, even throughout a Muskoka winter. The tireless efforts of the Town of Bracebridge is what made this possible. We could not be happier with the announcement and look forward to the future with great excitement.”
Regular project updates are provided by the Town as work on the Multi-Use Community Centre continues.