Public will get a look at conceptual designs in September
Jun 25, 2009 - 03:18 PM
By Reka Szekely
AJAX -- After consulting with the community, Town of Ajax officials have a general idea of the features they want included in a new community centre slated to open in mid-2012.
It will be located in the Taunton and Audley roads area beside the existing Sportsplex. Before coming to the general government committee, Town staff and the architects for the project consulted community groups and residents in the area, including holding a public meeting.
Howie Dayton, director of recreation and culture for the Town, said the goal is to create a community centre that serves people of all ages and ethnicities.
"Today's really about seeking your input," said Mr. Dayton to councillors last Thursday.
Architect David Miller said the project team will complete three conceptual designs for the centre this summer and present a preferred concept in September. At the end of that month, the public will be consulted at an open house.
The current plans include: three pools with a lane pool, a leisure pool and a hot tub; a full-size basketball court which can be divided into three smaller courts or configured for other sports; a group fitness studio and cardio and weight training areas; community areas for meetings, art programs and more; a youth area including a lounge, pool tables, computers and video games; and a preschool play area, with low sinks and toilets, geared toward younger children.
And the halls and lobbies will also encourage active recreation and will include special features.
"I know a green wall is hoped for and hopefully we can integrate that into the lobby," said Mr. Miller.
He added the building can be equipped with features that would earn it a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design silver certification.
Among the requests from the community were gender-specific and universal family change rooms, modesty screens available for all-female swims, parent with stroller parking and healthy choices at the concession stands.
The facility will also include outdoor features with most of the space as passive green space as opposed to being configured for a particular sport. This will allow for multiple uses.The Town is considering adding a cricket pitch, beach volleyball courts, a skate park and a splash pad.
"Can there be some flexibility built in, if it does arise that a library is necessary in phase one?" asked Coun. Renrick Ashby.
"Yes," responded Mr. Dayton.
Coun. Ashby also asked whether the facilities could serve elite athletes, pointing to the number of elite athletes who attend Pickering High School, and have the potential to host tournaments.
Mr. Dayton said if that's what councillors want, it would be considered.
"We're open to it, it's just can we afford it," he said. The current price tag for the centre sits at $18.4 million for the community centre and $1.25 million for the surrounding park.
But the costs will likely fluctuate and increase if the Town wants more features.
"Currently, the construction (industry) seems to be operating like a commodities market, up and down," said Mr. Dayton.
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