Last week, the City of Corner Brook officially broke ground at Grenfell Campus for the construction of its new incoming Regional Recreation Centre. Contractor Pomerleau entered the first phase of construction which includes snow clearing, installation of construction fencing, establishing site access for the public as well as pedestrian corridors.

The project is expected to be completed in two years’ time. The facility will incorporate the existing pool and gym infrastructure while integrating a new leisure pool, lazy river, waterslide, lap pool, wet/dry sauna, multi-purpose room, a day care with outdoor playground, and a fitness centre. Construction is broken down into three stages which are outlined in the backgrounder below. This exciting new project is a cost-shared investment of $24.7 Million with contributions from the Federal Government and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, with the City of Corner Brook contributing $5.0 Million to the cost.

During construction, users of Grenfell’s gym are advised the door directly outside the gym location will be inaccessible, as will change rooms and washroom facilities in that area. Parking in that area will also be restricted. Chalet and residence road access will be rerouted. As the project develops, Grenfell Campus staff will communicate directly with students and visitors on potential impacts to their day-to-day activities. The City will also inform the general public on any road or water interruptions.

Quotes

“As a modern, progressive City, Corner Brook is blessed with some of the best recreational facilities in our province. This new recreation centre, complete with a modern aquatics facility and daycare, will improve the quality of life for those of us who live here now, and entice newcomers and the next generation to stay here in the future.” – Mayor Jim Parsons

“Since this project was announced in spring 2020, we have all been so excited about what this means for the region. We’ve always prided ourselves in being part of the community in a meaningful way. We want the residents to feel a real connection to our campus, and this partnership with the City of Corner Brook is a giant leap in that direction.” – Ian Sutherland, Vice-President, Grenfell Campus

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MEDIA CONTACT:
Ryan Butt
Communications Officer
City of Corner Brook
Office: (709) 637-1662
Cell: (709) 632-8113
rbutt@cornerbrook.com

Backgrounder

Stage 1- Mobilization / Preparatory construction.
– Snow removal
– Installation of construction fencing o Setting up work trailers
– Establishing site accesses (both for construction and public)
– Establishing pedestrian corridors

Stage 2 – Relocation of utilities.
– Relocation of storm sewer
– Relocation of water main
– Road widening
– Excavation for new building footprint o Parking lot construction

Stage 3 -Building construction.
– Demolition o Foundation work
– Structural steel
– Roofing systems
– Closing in building
– Interior work
– Pool and waterslide
– Final commissioning

Estimated completion date: Fall of 2023