TORONTO — The City of Toronto has officially broken ground on the Western North York Community Recreation & Child Care Centre — a landmark project set to become one of Toronto’s first net-zero energy aquatic facilities.
Located in the Black Creek-Humber River area, the new 80,000-square-foot centre will be a hub of recreation, learning, and child care for western North York. Mayor Olivia Chow was joined by Councillor Anthony Perruzza and City officials to mark the start of construction on the facility, which is expected to open by late 2028.
“This new centre is a great example of our commitment to build stronger neighbourhoods in North York and beyond,” said Mayor Chow. “And having a net-zero energy facility is something all residents can be proud of.”
Community-Driven Design with Climate Action at Its Core
Following three years of community consultation, the Centre has been designed to reflect local needs while incorporating cutting-edge sustainability features. The building will use a geothermal system to heat and cool its interior, a solar power system for most of its electricity needs, and low-carbon concrete. An advanced stormwater system will further support the building’s environmental performance.
As part of Toronto’s TransformTO Net Zero Strategy, the facility represents a major step in aligning infrastructure investments with long-term climate targets.
Councillor Paula Fletcher, Chair of the Infrastructure and Environment Committee, praised the dual focus on emissions reduction and community service. “From reducing emissions to bringing a community together with high-quality, accessible child care, this centre is an important facility for residents,” she said.
We’re breaking ground🚧⛏️
City of Toronto breaks ground on one of the City’s first net- zero aquatic facilities in North York
News Release: https://t.co/xPFxmAELCj pic.twitter.com/D6xSVKz9Kq
— City of Toronto 🇨🇦 (@cityoftoronto) June 13, 2025
What’s Inside the Centre
Once complete, the Centre will include:
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A six-lane, 25-metre lap pool
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A leisure pool and aquatic programming classroom
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Child care for up to 62 children
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Multi-sport gymnasium and walking track
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Two fitness/dance studios and a teaching kitchen
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STEM lab, computer lab, and multimedia space
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Art studio, social amphitheatre, and accessible community spaces
The new building will replace the aging Carmine Stefano Community Centre, which will continue operating until the new centre opens.
Award-Winning Design
Even before breaking ground, the project has earned national recognition. The Western North York Centre received the 2025 RAIC Research & Innovation in Architecture Award, recognizing excellence in architectural innovation and climate-forward design.
For more information on Toronto’s climate action efforts, visit the TransformTO Net Zero Strategy page.
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