A ground breaking for our community’s new twin-pad arena and library took place today, as well as the official launch of the fundraising campaign for the project, including a special announcement of a $1-million donation by Zancor Homes.
“This marks a historic moment in our community as we officially start the construction phase for a building that will serve the needs of current and future residents,” Mayor Nina Bifolchi said. “Entertainment, healthy living, learning, and sports will take place in this new space, touching lives in so many positive ways.”
In launching the fundraising campaign, Mayor Bifolchi thanked Zancor and the Cortellucci family – owners of the company – for their generous contribution towards the project. Zancor has a long history of building in Wasaga Beach and a real track record of local philanthropy.
“This sizeable donation is greatly appreciated and is a terrific way to begin our fundraising efforts. We aim to raise more than $1.7-million for this project and I encourage people to visit our campaign website to learn how they can contribute,” Mayor Bifolchi said.
Speaking on behalf of Zancor, Fabrizio Cortellucci said the company is pleased to be a part of such an important development.
“The Cortellucci family and Zancor Homes build in Wasaga Beach because we believe in this community. Wasaga Beach is a truly great place to live and we are so proud to be a part of it. We know that the twin-pad arena and library will be a real gathering place for people and it honours us to play a role in making this important new space a reality,” he said.
Earlier this month, council awarded a $43.4-million (plus HST) stipulated price contract to Aquicon Construction Company Ltd. to build the new facility. Aquicon’s price falls well in line with the council approved $59-million budget for the project.
“Aquicon is delighted for the opportunity to deliver the Wasaga Beach twin-pad arena and library project. We look forward to working closely with the town, consulting and trade partners to bring this exciting community space to life,” Aquicon president Daniel Aquino said.
Located at 544 River Rd. W., in the east end of Wasaga Beach, the town anticipates construction of the new complex will be complete by summer 2023.
Project background information
In January 2019, town council identified the twin-pad arena and library project as a priority for this term. The Wasaga Stars Arena, built nearly 50 years ago, is at the end of its lifespan. The library, which opened in 1994, is too small to meet the needs of our growing community. A review, including a community consultation process, determined 544 River Rd. W. as the best site for a new 117,669-square-foot joint-use facility. When the new complex opens in the summer of 2023, it will include two NHL-size ice surfaces, an indoor walking track, a modern library with proper program space, and meeting rooms.
The overall budget for the project is $59,970,306. The construction component of the budget is $44,573,921. Aquicon’s price, including HST, is $44,245,248.
Colliers Project Leaders are the project managers. MJMA Architecture and Design are the architects.
Learn more about the project on our website.