The federal government has announced more than $17 million in funding to build two green community infrastructure projects in Pickering.

Under the terms of the agreement, Infrastructure Canada will commit $12.5 million through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program to the Pickering Heritage and Community Centre and an additional $516,560 through GICB for the Redman House Program Centre Green Retrofit project.

Canadian Heritage has already committed $4 million to the Pickering Heritage and Community Centre project through its Canada Cultural Spaces Fund.

The money will support the construction of the new 44,000 square foot, net zero-ready Pickering Heritage and Community Centre that will include a community theatre and a museum that will house community exhibits. The facility will host new and improved recreation and leisure programming for the community as well as library services.

The additional funding will support green retrofits to the Redman House Program Centre. The work will include energy efficiency upgrades to both mechanical and electrical components of the existing facility, as well as accessibility improvements that include the replacement of the ramp and renovations to the washrooms. This project will allow the centre to continue to provide visitor and volunteer services at the Pickering Museum Village. 

“On behalf of the City of Pickering, its Members of Council, and residents, I sincerely thank the Government of Canada for investing $17M towards new, green community infrastructure in Pickering,” said Mayor Dave Ryan. “Pickering is home to many significant heritage-based communities, facilities, and programs. This funding will help support exciting and meaningful projects, that will bring our community together, while showcasing Pickering’s historic roots in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner.”

Funding for the Pickering Heritage and Community Centre project is conditional upon meeting Indigenous consultations obligations.

The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program provides $1.5 billion over five years towards green and accessible retrofits, repairs or upgrades of existing public community buildings and the construction of new publicly-accessible community buildings that serve high-needs, underserved communities.