Tuesday, June 14, 2016
City of London
Groundbreaking for new $55M Southwest Community Centre, YMCA and Library
Today, representatives from the City of London, YMCA of Western Ontario and the London Public Library gathered for the ceremonial groundbreaking, release of final building design plans and sign unveiling for the future Community Centre, YMCA and Library at 501 Southdale Road.
Over $55 million is being invested in this collaborative joint venture and represents the largest municipal building investment in London's history. The two-storey building will include a community centre, double pad arena, indoor pool and gymnasium, multi-purpose rooms, community kitchen, Service London counter, YMCA fitness facility and public library branch.
The partners are coming together for the residents of London to create a welcoming and friendly environment where families can swim, skate, read, connect, be active and access services. The facility was designed with input from residents and key stakeholders and will serve as a neighbourhood gathering place as well as a regional destination for generations to come.
Construction will begin summer 2016 and the facility is scheduled to open September 2018.
This project was made possible by a generous donation of land by Ali Soufan of York Developments.
"This is great day for London", said Mayor Matt Brown. "Community Centres play a strong role in supporting Council's commitment to strengthening our community through providing a healthy, safe and accessible city for all; as outlined in our 2015-2019 Strategic Plan. I think this is best done working in collaboration with many great organizations, and here in this neighbourhood, residents will feel the benefits of the largest municipal building investment in our city."
"We are excited to work once again with the City and the Library on this new venture", says Andrew Lockie, CEO, YMCA of Western Ontario. It is a tremendous testament of how forward thinking partnerships can effectively work together. These kinds of trusted partnerships are what makes the Y so strong and able to service so many Londoners."
"The very essence of London Public Library is sharing, whether that be expertise, information, books, or space", said Susanna Hubbard Krimmer, CEO and Chief Librarian, London Public Library. "We are very grateful to come together with our partners at the City of London and the YMCA for the great benefit of our community. Together we are leveraging our resources and collaborating to create an inspiring, exciting and useful destination for all."
Watch for updates at london.ca/swcc.
Media Contacts:
Bill Coxhead
City of London - Managing Director of Parks and Recreation
519-661-2500 ext 5879
bcoxhead@london.ca
Anne Baxter
YMCA of Western Ontario - Director, Marketing and Communications
519-667-2351
abaxter@ymcawo.ca
Ellen Hobin
London Public Library - Manager Communications
519-661-6403
ellen.hobin@lpl.london.on.ca
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