Canadian Canoe Museum announces delayed completion date
Construction work continues on the new home for the Canadian Canoe Museum (CCM) in Peterborough, but it’s increasingly unlikely the building will open in the early summer, as originally planned.
The museum updated construction progress in late January, indicating that the $40-million project was experiencing pandemic-induced delays, including supply chain interruptions and material shortages.
A national shortage of cement powder recently created a three-week delay in completing the building’s superstructure.
“The CCM project started at a difficult time in the industry,” said Maria Williams, project director with builders Chandos Construction. “Due to the pandemic and other influences outside our control, we have seen trade shortages, material supply issues and escalations beyond what we have historically seen. I am incredibly proud of the work of this team, which has come together to find unique solutions to minimize the impact on the project budget and schedule while maintaining the overall quality of the design and construction.”
As a result, the team is planning a grand opening in late summer or early fall.
“As designers, we have seen unprecedented upheaval in the construction sector over the last two years,” said Bill Lett, managing principal, Lett Architects Inc. “While there have been similar delays and supply chain issues on the CCM, through our integrated approach to project delivery, these have been minimized compared to other projects. We are pleased with the progress made and look forward to seeing the museum open to the public in 2023.”
The CCM hopes the building will become a cultural destination that will inspire visitors to learn about Canada’s collective history and reinforce connections to land, water and one another – all through the unique lens of the canoe.
The building will be located on a five-acre site that will provide west-facing views of Little Lake, a connection to the Trans Canada Trail, and will be surrounded by public parks. It will become a vibrant community space for outdoor activities and the museum’s canoeing and outdoor programs and events.
“It is an exciting time for the Canadian Canoe Museum,” said executive director Carolyn Hyslop. “A little more than a year ago, we had just begun construction. Since then, we’ve achieved many milestones. The building structure has come to life before our eyes, the mass timber façade is taking shape and the building is nearly closed in. Exhibits have been developed and are being sent to fabrication, the fundraising campaign is in its final stretch and the collection is nearly ready for its move across town.”
The CCM remains hopeful that the new museum will be able to celebrate its grand opening during paddling season.