Hamilton Gears Up for Three New Rec Centres in Glanbrook, Fruitland-Winona, and Waterdown.
Big things are happening, Hamilton! The city is laying the groundwork for not one, not two, but three shiny new recreation centres. These new hubs of activity will be popping up in Glanbrook, Fruitland-Winona, and Waterdown, promising a mix of gyms, program spaces, and (if you’re lucky) pools to keep Hamiltonians moving and grooving for years to come.
Community Voices Lead the Way
The city kicked off the planning process in style last November and December with in-person engagement sessions across the three areas. These chats weren’t just for show—residents got to weigh in on what features they’d love to see, from programming options to guiding principles for the design. Think of it as Hamilton’s version of a community vision board.
Next up, an online survey will run this January and February, giving everyone another chance to shape these facilities. Whether you’re dreaming of a yoga studio, a basketball court, or an indoor rock-climbing wall, now’s the time to speak up!
Design Dreams Take Shape
Once the survey wraps, the city will roll out draft conceptual designs for public review. These designs will be shared online and at public information centres to make sure the community’s input is reflected. Details about timelines for these drafts are still under wraps, but hey, good things take time.
Part of a Bigger Plan
These rec centres aren’t just random acts of community improvement. They’re part of the city’s 2022 Recreation Master Plan—a 20-year vision with 85 recommendations to keep up with Hamilton’s growing population. The plan calls for these three facilities to be up and running by 2031.
Zooming In: What Each Area Gets
Here’s what’s on the wishlist for each new rec centre:
Waterdown: Set to shine near the Harry Howell Arena at Clappison’s Corners (where big development plans are already in motion), this facility could feature a pool, gym, and program space. With a master-planned community adding more than 10,000 residents to the area, this rec centre will be hopping.
Glanbrook: The plan is to attach this one to the Glanbrook Arena on Binbrook Road. While a pool isn’t in the cards, expect a gym and program space that’ll keep local families busy and active.
Fruitland-Winona: The exact spot is still TBD, but the rec centre is meant to replace the Winona Community Centre. Councillor Jeff Beattie has thrown his support behind keeping the new facility at the existing site. Look forward to a gym and program space here too.
Looking Further Ahead
The Master Plan doesn’t stop with these three centres. By 2041, the city is eyeing two more facilities:
A South Mountain rec centre with a pool, gym, and program space (site yet to be determined).
A revamped Saltfleet Arena in Stoney Creek, transforming it into a modern recreation hub.
What’s Next?
The ball’s rolling, but there’s still plenty of work to be done. So, Hamiltonians, grab your coffee, take that online survey, and stay tuned for updates. After all, these rec centres are your spaces—let’s make them the best they can be!
Stay ambitious, Hamilton—because together, we aspire, and together, we achieve!
