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Red Deer north community centre to begin construction in the spring

Construction on the North Red Deer Community Centre is set to begin next spring.

Construction on the North Red Deer Community Centre is set to begin next spring.

Architectural drawings, cost build up estimates and all other detail specifications for the facility are expected to wrap up sometime next month.

“This community centre has been on our radar since we did an asset needs assessment study back in 2010,” said Shelley Gagnon, the city’s Recreations Parks &Culture manager. “We found through that assessment study that the community was looking for something different, and something more sustainable,”

With a budget of $8,843,000, the community centre, located at Taylor Drive and 77 Street, next to Glendale School, will include multi-purpose spaces, meeting/programming rooms, small kitchen areas, and an indoor playground.

The city began discussions with the neighbourhoods of Normandeau, Aspen Heights, Glendale, Kentwood, Kingsgate, Johnstone Park and Johnstone Crossing to talk about the type of facility they would like to see.

“Because of where it’s at, on the Glendale site, it’s going to be a campus type feel. It will be sort of linked to the skate park and with the school on site, we see great synergy opportunities,” said Gagnon.

“We look at this very much as a campus and a place for multi-generations to come and share experiences.”

Gagnon said the facility offers a place where the community can gather, build relationships, experience arts and cultures and have recreation and leisure opportunities.

“Whether it’s a park or a building, a place like this can build stronger neighbourhoods and a feeling of connectedness and resiliency. It fosters inclusion, belonging along with physical and social well-being,” said Gagnon.

The city has already relocated a playground from their soon-to-be construction site, to help get ready for construction this spring.

The 20,000-square foot facility will include a gathering area of 250 people and is expected to be completed in the fall of 2018.

jonathan.guignard@www.reddeeradvocate.com