Michael Blois, Phil Fenech, and Andrew Frontini, Perkins + Will, provided a PowerPoint presentation regarding Whitby Sports Complex – Final Design. Highlights of the presentation included:
- feedback received from the community regarding the Whitby Sports Complex design concept and program spaces;
- an overview of the key design principles;
- a summary of the program elements, including aquatics amenities, arenas, viewing spaces, gymnasium, walking track, and multi-purpose program spaces;
- outdoor programs and facilities included in the park design;
- goals achieved by a LEED/Net Zero Carbon sustainable design, which includes a District Energy System;
- a design inspired by Whitby's unique identity, culture, and natural landscape;
- the geographic location of the building site and it's proximity to nearby trails and conservation areas;
- an overview of the site concept, including outdoor program spaces, parking, placement of the storm water management garden, and landscaping;
- visual renderings of the exterior and interior of the building;
- the strategic use of natural and artificial lighting to support sustainability targets;
- details of the ground floor layout and program spaces, including a t-shaped atrium, reception counter, accessible ramp, unisex washrooms, and public art;
- key features of the aquatics and arena facilities, which include accessible changerooms and viewing spaces for spectators;
- details of the upper floor layouts, including an extension of the accessible ramp, sustainable features, and recreational amenities;
- the use of public art in program spaces and engagement with STEPS Art Consultants to lead an Indigenous Art process; and,
- next steps in preparing for tendering the project.
A question and answer period ensued between Members of Council, Staff, M. Blois, P. Fenech, and A. Frontini regarding:
- the risks of proceeding with construction in the current market;
- increasing indoor event and meeting spaces;
- clarification regarding the 'low impact' stormwater management pond;
- opportunity for the installation of additional solar panels in the future;
- visibility of amenities from the reception counter;
- limitations on programs and amenities that may operate near the District Energy System;
- whether the wood ceiling beams removed from the original design as a cost savings measure may be reconsidered;
- clarification regarding the project budget, including the $129 million facility cost estimate;
- flexibility of seating in the outdoor event plaza;
- the size of the playground and District Energy System, and whether these spaces may accommodate a variety of sports such as cricket;
- whether the indoor facilities may accommodate badminton and squash;
- the availability and placement of parking spaces;
- rational for excluding a full-service restaurant from the design;
- the impact of implementing cost reduction strategies on the project timelines; and,
- certainty regarding cost estimates.