H.G.R. Mews Centre Replacement: Project Update
Construction for the new community centre in Mundy Pond Park, to replace the H.G.R. Mews Community Centre began in September and is well underway. The Jumpstart Inclusive Playground, which was gifted to the City by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, is also under construction. The universally accessible Jumpstart Inclusive Playground will open in Spring/Summer 2022, and the new community centre will open to the public in Fall 2023.
“I am thrilled to see the progress that crews are making on the build for our new community centre,” said Ward 3 Councillor Jamie Korab. “I was involved in this project from the very start when we undertook the public consultation process in 2018/19. I would like to thank residents who took part in that process. I would also like to acknowledge people living in the area and thank them for their patience and understanding as we undertake this significant construction project in their neighbourhood.”
Rendered images of the new community center, an overview of amenities, and background information regarding the H.G.R Mews Centre replacement project can be found on the engage page.
“I am pleased that the replacement for the aging Mews Centre is right here at Mundy Pond Park,” said Deputy Mayor Sheilagh O’Leary, lead for Community Services. “The universally accessible playground, and accessible new building will add tremendous value to this neighbourhood. Mundy Pond Park is currently home to a skate park, softball field, dog park and a walking trail. With these new additions we will have something for all ages and abilities to participate in sport, recreation and leisure opportunities, right here in centre city.”
The Jumpstart Playground was announced in July 2019. The new inclusive playground will further enhance the park as a destination for outdoor recreation by providing imaginative and accessible spaces where children of all abilities can play together.
“Jumpstart is proud to bring an inclusive and innovative play space to St. John’s through the Jumpstart Inclusive Playground, at the soon to be updated Mundy Pond Park,” said Scott Fraser, President, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. “We look forward to seeing the completed park and playground in the near future and welcoming kids of all abilities to join in the magic of play.”
The costs of playground equipment and rubber surfacing, valued at approximately $1 million, are funded by Jumpstart, with the City providing the land and costs associated with site preparation.
The total cost to replace the Mews Community Centre is $33,597,250 and is federally funded by the Canada Community Building Fund previously known as the Federal Gas Tax Fund. The program funding is administered and distributed by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to fund local infrastructure priorities such as public transit, wastewater, drinking water, roads, and buildings.