The newly expanded Queensborough Community Centre is open for business.
The centre opened its doors to the public at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, May 21. The community centre, which is the City of New Westminster's first neighbourhood hub, includes a library branch, police work spaces, multi-purpose rooms, an expanded fitness centre, a licensed childcare centre for children three to five years of age, a community kitchen and a living room with fireplace.
"The centre will provide opportunities for social interaction, strengthen neighbourly relationships, and be a safe place and second home for individuals of all ages," said Renée Chadwick, manager of Queensborough Community Centre. "Our operating philosophy is to work together with the community and other organizations to bring new services to Queensborough that support healthy living."
The $7.67 million expansion project received $6.2 million in funding from the development assistant compensation agreement between the City of New Westminster, Province of B.C., B.C. Lottery Corporation and Gateway Casinos, and the city provided additional funds toward the project. In addition to the expansion, the project included upgrades to the existing building that was built in 1978.
"The new Queensborough Community Centre reinforces the City of New Westminster's commitment to creating a sustainable community," said Mayor Wayne Wright. "It will be a tremendous asset to the city and we hope that all residents take advantage of the many programs and services being offered there."
The Queensborough Community Centre will offer a place where residents can pay their property taxes, utility and electrical bills, parking tickets and buy dog licenses.
The City of New Westminster is planning two events to celebrate the opening of the new centre.
A cocktail evening reception will be held on Friday, June 7 to acknowledge the "community champions" who provided support and input on the development of the new centre. The evening will include appetizers, entertainment, tours and displays between 7 and 8: 30 p.m., with a dance to follow.
The event is open to the community and tickets can be purchased by calling 604-525-7388.
A "centre warming" will be held on Saturday, July 6 from noon to 4 p.m. to officially open the new Queensborough Community Centre. This free family event will include a sampling of programs and services, displays and information opportunities from a variety of service providers, police and fire services demonstrations, children's crafts in the library, entertainment and food available for purchase. It will also include a ribbon cutting ceremony and the unveiling of the new rain garden feature.
Originally constructed in 1978, the new community centre is the city's first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) Gold facility. The project involved a 13,500 square foot addition onto the existing facility and upgrades to some aspects of the existing building, such as the exterior and the roof.
