Toronto – Mayor Olivia Chow announced a new City of Toronto initiative that will help refresh 30 community recreation centres across the city by updating interior elements that includes repairing and repainting walls, ceilings and structural features by the end of next year. The refresh will also include modern and welcoming lobby furniture, charging stations and access to public Wi-Fi at 126 Community Recreation Centres by the end of this year.
Several factors were considered when selecting sites including the current condition of the centre, geographic distribution across the city and consideration for equity-deserving neighbourhoods. The work will be undertaken in such a way to minimize disruption to any programs taking place in these centres. The goals of the community centre refresh program are to:
- Ensure that community centres continue to be inviting, welcoming and safe spaces for people to gather and connect.
- Improve the overall experience for residents, visitors and the clients who use these centres.
- Contribute to the longevity of these community recreation centres.
- Continue to maintain and invest in the state of good repair of City facilities.
Access to public Wi-Fi is part of the City’s ConnectTO program that aims to provide convenient and reliable internet access for all Torontonians regardless of income, education level, employment status, demographics or where they live. With increased access people can get online to connect with family and friends, access education, connect to vital services and more.
“We remain committed to refreshing these community centres to help ensure community members can come together to feel a greater sense of belonging and to be connected. Access to public Wi-Fi in community centres will help provide convenient and reliable internet access for all Torontonians regardless of income, education level, employment status, demographics or where they live. The refresh program taps into “Back on Track” funding which addresses the critical need for accelerated infrastructure projects that breathe new life into the city’s beloved indoor and outdoor public spaces.” -Mayor Olivia Chow