Groundbreaking Ceremony at the Recreation Complex

Embrun, Ontario – The Township of Russell marked a significant milestone in its history with the official groundbreaking ceremony for the Russell Township Recreation Complex. The event took place on September 17, 2024, with members of Parliament, key stakeholders, Township staff, and residents in attendance to witness the beginning of this transformative $100 million project.

Mayor Mike Tarnowski, Member of Provincial Parliament Stéphane Sarrazin, and Chief Administrative Officer Richard Godin delivered remarks during the press conference, expressing excitement and pride in the progress and vision of the project.

 “As a resident of this community for almost 30 years, my wife and I have always dreamed of a facility like this. While it’s a significant investment, it’s one that goes beyond recreation. This complex will promote physical and mental health, bring our community together, and boost our local economy. It’s a vital investment in the well-being, prosperity, and future of our residents and generations to come,” shared Mayor Mike Tarnowski.

The Recreation Complex is the largest project ever undertaken by Russell Township, originating from public consultations and community involvement dating back to 2020. The complex will serve as a modern, inclusive, and accessible facility for residents of all ages, providing opportunities for sports, fitness, and community events.

“I am filled with pride witnessing the immense teamwork and dedication that has gone into this project from all our departments, consultants, contractors, and through extensive public consultations. Today, we break ground on a facility that reflects years of collaboration and commitment, and we are excited to deliver a space that will benefit our community for generations,” said Township of Russell CAO Richard Godin.

Shown in the photo from left to right: Dan Faughnan (former CAO), Pierre Leroux (former Mayor), Marc Downing (MJMA), Paul McDonald (McDonald Brothers), Greg Stallard (Turner & Townsend), Céline Guitard (Director of Parks and Recreation Department), Richard Godin (Chief Administrative Officer), Mike Tarnowski (Mayor), Stéphane Sarrazin (MPP for Glengarry-Prescott-Russell), Marc Lalonde (Councillor), Lisa Deacon (Councillor), Patrick Gehling (JL Richards), Luke Duross (MJMA), Jean Leduc (former CAO), and Jonathan Bourgon (Executive Director of Infrastructure Department).

Project Highlights:

Ice Rinks

• Three ice rinks to replace the current two in Embrun and Russell, increasing available ice time.
  • Rink 1: Capacity of 400 (250 seats + 150 standing room)
  • Rink 2: Capacity of 155 (125 seats + 30 standing room)
  • Rink 3: Capacity of 197 (117 seats + 80 standing room)
• 12 spacious change rooms, each equipped with modern amenities including gender-neutral facilities.
• The complex will support various ice sports including hockey, figure skating, broomball, and ringette, with the capability to host tournaments.

Aquatic Centre

• A 25-metre, 6-lane indoor pool with a leisure pool and water jets.
• Facilities include a dry sauna and a universal changing room for full accessibility and inclusivity.
• Year-round swimming lessons, regional competitions, and recreational swimming opportunities will be available, creating local jobs.

Community Centre

• A 10,000-square-foot community hall divisible into three sections for maximum flexibility, featuring a fully equipped kitchen.

Community Hub

• The new complex will join an already vibrant recreational area, which includes a sports dome, the Jonathan Pitre Accessible Park, a seniors’ exercise area, and outdoor sports courts.
• The site will also feature a canteen, gender-neutral bathrooms, and proximity to the local recreation trail.

After over five years of extensive planning and public consultation, the contract for construction was awarded to McDonald Brothers Construction Inc. at the June 24, 2024, Council meeting. The conceptual design was presented earlier this year on April 8, 2024.

The Recreation Complex reflects the Township’s commitment to providing high-quality recreational facilities that meet the diverse needs of its residents and foster a sense of community.

For more information about the project, including photos and video, visit russell.accwebdev.com/parks-and-recreation/recreation-facilities/recreation-complex/ or contact the Parks and Recreation Department.