Newly expanded Queensborough Community Centre set to open

New Westminster, BC – The newly expanded Queensborough Community Centre is set to open its doors to the public at 9:00 am on Tuesday, May 21^st, 2013. The Centre will be the City’s first neighbourhood hub and will include a number of great amenities to support community life in Queensborough.

Originally constructed in 1978, the new community centre is the city’s first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environment Design) Gold facility. The 27,852 square foot building will include a branch library, police work spaces, multi-purpose rooms, expanded fitness centre, licensed childcare for 3-5 years of age, community kitchen and living room with fireplace. Residents will also be able to utilize the facility to process city payments such as property tax, utility and electrical bills, parking tickets and purchasing dog licenses.

“The new Queensborough Community Centre reinforces the City of New Westminster’s commitment to creating a sustainable community,” said Mayor Wayne Wright. “It will be a tremendous asset to the city and we hope that all residents take advantage of the many programs and services being offered there.”

The $7.67 million expansion project was funded in part through $6.2 million in funding from the Development Assistant Compensation agreement between the City of New Westminster, Province of BC, BC Lottery Corporation and Gateway Casinos.

“The centre will provide opportunities for social interaction, strengthen neighbourly relationships, and be a safe place and second home for individuals of all ages,” said Renée Chadwick, Manager, Queensborough Community Centre. “Our operating philosophy is to work together with the community and other organizations to bring new services to Queensborough that support healthy living.”

To celebrate the opening, two events will be held: A cocktail evening reception will be held on Friday, June 7, 2013 to acknowledge the “community champions” who provided support and input on the development of the new centre. The evening will include appetizers, entertainment, tours and displays between 7:00 pm and 8:30 pm, and a dance will cap the night off.  This evening is open to the community; tickets can be purchased by calling 604-525-7388.

A “centre warming” on Saturday, July 6, 2013 will mark the official opening of the new Queensborough Community Centre. This free family event will be held from noon to 4:00 pm and will include a sampling of programs and services, displays and information opportunities from a variety of service providers, police and fire services demonstrations, children’s crafts in the library, entertainment and food available for purchase. The day will also include a ribbon cutting ceremony, the unveiling of the new rain garden feature, phase two of Megan’s Place, and the closure of the time capsule. Everyone is welcome to attend.

For more information on the Queensborough Community Centre expansion project, please visit www.newwestpcr.ca.

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Contacts:        
Renée Chadwick, Manager, Queensborough Community Centre
City of New Westminster
rchadwick@newwestcity.ca or 604-525-7032