Construction
hjcrc logo

The project logo is inspired by one of the most striking features of the new centre, the wood coffered ceiling in the main lobby. The ceiling mirrors the views of the iconic North Shore forest to welcome visitors with a sense of openness and a feeling of the forest continued inside.

Construction

What’s Happening Now

The overall construction of the new centre including all indoor and outdoor spaces is anticipated to complete in the fall of 2026. 

As of July and early August, multipurpose spaces, the multi-use arena, the art studio, youth centre, welcome atrium, gymnasium and fitness areas have been open for regular public use. The gymnasium washrooms are currently available for use as interim change-rooms until the aquatic centre is completed later this fall.

The aquatics centre (pools, sauna, steam room, showers, gendered and universal change rooms) is proceeding with final air balancing and water testing, staff training and health authority approvals. The opening date for the aquatic facility will be announced once all required approvals are received, and the centre is anticipated to be open to the public later this fall.

The new Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre is located next to Centennial Theatre at the corner of East 23rd Street and Lonsdale Avenue. The former Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre, Memorial Gymnasium and Centennial Theatre all remained open and operational during construction. The Mickey McDougall Recreation Centre has undergone an energy and accessibility upgrades, along with interior renovations in preparation of becoming the new home of Flicka Gymnastics Club.

Learn more about the construction timeline and project impacts below.


Schedule

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to transform the former site to make way for the new centre.

 The schedule includes:

  • March 2022 – Site preparation and demolition work – Completed 
  • June 2022 – Foundation work – Completed
  • Summer 2022 – Financing finalized and construction phase authorized – Completed
  • Fall 2022 – Permitting and start of construction – Completed
  • 2023 – Foundation concrete to grade – Completed
  • 2024 to 2025 – Major building structure and envelope works – Completed
  • 2025 – Interiors, commissioning, landscaping and off-site works – Completed
  • Spring 2026 – Final construction of HJCRC – Completed
  • July 25, 2026 – Opening Celebration
  • July 27, 2026 – Centre open for tours, try-it and drop-in activities
  • Fall 2026 – Regular fall programming begins and aquatics facility expected to open

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