Collingwood Pursues Third Attempt at Multi-Use Recreational Facility Amid Growing Community Needs

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The Town of Collingwood is embarking on what could be its third attempt in two decades to establish a multi-use recreational facility, despite the endeavor being years away. Concerns about the condition and sustainability of the Central Park Arena and Centennial Aquatic Centre have prompted Coun. Kathy Jeffery to propose allocating $3 million to a reserve fund for a future recreation center. Plans are underway for a feasibility study in 2022 to explore the potential for the facility, as outlined in the parks and recreation master plan.

Former Mayor Terry Geddes, who held office from 1997 to 2006, expressed regret over not successfully initiating a facility project in 2005 at Fisher Field, now known as Fisher Field. Geddes, who was part of the Central Park Steering Committee, believes Collingwood is missing out on opportunities provided by neighboring communities with well-equipped recreational facilities. Current community members, including Chris Potts, President of Collingwood Minor Hockey, emphasize the value of a dual ice rink facility for hosting events and enhancing scheduling efficiency.

Residents like Cindy Green and Mary Villamagna are also advocates for a comprehensive multi-use facility in Collingwood. Green envisions a facility with diverse amenities such as a pool, indoor running track, gymnasium, and tennis and pickleball courts. She highlights the community's active nature and the convenience of consolidating facilities under one roof. Similarly, Villamagna hopes for a facility comparable to those in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), offering affordable indoor programs for seniors that reflect the demographic and needs of the area.