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 has now surpassed the 85% complete stage. The centre is scheduled to open its doors and welcome the public on July 25, 2026. 

Beginning July 27, multipurpose spaces, the art studio, youth centre, atrium, gymnasium and fitness areas will be open for regular public use. Gymnasium washrooms are available for changing beginning in late July. Showers, gendered and universal change rooms are expected to be completed in August. 

The aquatics centre (pools, sauna, steam room, showers, change rooms) is going through final checks, testing, staff training and health authority approvals. The opening date for the aquatic facilities will be announced once all required approvals have been received, and is anticipated to be ready for programming and lessons this fall. 

The City built the new Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre next to Centennial Theatre at the corner of East 23rd Street and Lonsdale Avenue. The current Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre, Memorial Gymnasium and Centennial Theatre remained open and operating during construction. The Mickey McDougall Recreation Centre is underwent 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 in the information below.

Schedule

The project remains on track and will be completed by summer of 2026. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to transform the current 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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