‘There was a need in the area’: Wallace Emerson residents to get new recreation centre

Construction has started on a new recreation centre for residents in the Wallace Emerson neighbourhood, as part of the Reimagine Galleria master plan. Brandon Rowe speaks with City officials, and those who will eventually be using it.

By Brandon Rowe

Construction is currently underway for a new recreation centre in the Toronto neighbourhood of Wallace Emerson, as part of the Reimagine Galleria development plan.

Residents in the community have been longing for upgrades to the Wallace Emerson Community Recreation Centre and in three years they will finally get a new approximately 89,000-square-foot facility.

The neighbourhood of Wallace Emerson is situated north of Bloor Street Street in between the Junction Triangle and Dovercourt Park.

Wallace Emerson Community Recreation Centre and Wallace Emerson Park are being revitalized as part of the Reimagine Galleria master plan.

The Wallace Emerson revitalization project will double the size of the current recreation centre. The updated facility will feature a full-size gym with a running track, dance and aerobic studios, an aquatic centre, including a six-lane 25-metre pool and a leisure pool, and an outdoor running track on the roof of the building.

“There was a need in the area. There was a gap for community services” said Peter Didiano, the project manager for Parks, Forestry, and Recreation.

The City said that they’ve held consultations and focus groups to ensure residents were not only on board but had input as to what would be included in the new facility.

The design phase started back in 2018 with the help of residents and there was even an open house event in 2019 with renderings being released in 2020.

Wallace Emerson Community Recreation Centre and Wallace Emerson Park are being revitalized as part of the Reimagine Galleria master plan

Wallace Emerson Community Recreation Centre and Wallace Emerson Park are being revitalized as part of the Reimagine Galleria master plan. HANDOUT

In addition to the amenities included inside the recreation centre, the City said the revitalization project will be expanded to include the park, which will be increased by at least half a hectare, offering more public green space for residents. However, it’s the new childcare centre that has many residents excited.

“It’s going to service 62 children, which will mean there are 10 infants, two rooms of 10 toddlers and two rooms of 16 pre-schoolers,” said Gail O’Donnell, the project manager for Children’s Services.

The new community centre is adopting the City’s commitment to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by doing things like using renewable energy through solar photovoltaic panels and LED light fixtures to reduce energy use.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2025.

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today