Ottawa Construction News staff writer
The Bronson Centre in downtown Ottawa is set to undergo a transformation, thanks to combined funding of close to $8 million from the federal government.
Funding comes from the federal government’s Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) program and will be used for a series of essential upgrades including improvements to the building’s plumbing, fire safety system, and roof, as well as the addition of two fully accessible washrooms.
Also, the building envelope will be enhanced to improve energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and bolster its resilience against climate impacts.
The construction project will modernize the facility and contribute to Ottawa’s efforts to combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting energy efficiency.
In addition to the GICB funding, the project is backed by further federal investments: $523,556 from the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, $160,440 from the FedDev Ontario Tourism Growth Program, and $100,000 from Employment and Social Development Canada’s (ESDC) Enabling Accessibility Fund.
Yasir Naqvi, Member of Parliament for Ottawa Centre and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, praised the project during an announcement ceremony.
“The Bronson Centre is an important community gathering place,” she said. “These upgrades will ensure it remains a vibrant, inclusive space for generations to come.
The centre is contributing $1.64 million to the project.
“Bronson Centre is a microcosm of Ottawa,” said Corey Mayville, Executive Director of the Bronson Centre, emphasized how the Centre has long been a cornerstone of community engagement in Ottawa. “Over 30,000 people per month enter its doors to enjoy concerts, attend church services, create art, or volunteer for their community.”
The Bronson Centre has served as a hub for arts, culture, and social services since its establishment. The building has become a vital meeting place for people from diverse backgrounds, including individuals with disabilities, families, and community groups. This project is seen as a key part of the ongoing revitalization of downtown Ottawa, ensuring the Centre remains an accessible, sustainable, and welcoming environment for years to come.
The Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program (GICB) was launched in 2021 as part of Canada’s broader climate action plan. It aims to support the retrofitting, repair, and upgrading of community facilities to improve energy efficiency and resilience to climate change. With a budget of $1.5 billion over five years, the program has already supported a wide range of community-building projects across Canada, including at least 10% of funding allocated to projects benefiting Indigenous communities.
