Pickering, ON, October 7, 2009 Earlier this month Pickering unveiled its newest expansion of 3 high-tech fitness studios and 2 doubles squash courts. This expansion is an exciting step in the Sustainable Pickering Journey. The Sustainable Pickering program is grounded in five objectives: healthy environment, healthy society, healthy economy, responsible development and responsible consumption. The expansion has been designed to further each of these objectives.

"When the Pickering Recreation Complex first opened 25 years ago, it set the benchmark for municipal excellence. I am very pleased that the new expansion, particularly its new sustainable features, ensures that it remains a truly world-class facility,” said Mayor Dave Ryan. "I commend the community and the senior levels of government for their significant investment in our recreational infrastructure. Together, we are ensuring that Pickering remains one of the very best places in Canada to live, work and play.”

The new expansion has been built to supplement an existing facility, in a two story form. This approach minimizes the building’s footprint and requires no further additional structures such as an elevator or mechanical plant. The entire facility received an upgrade to its HVAC system, in that the facility’s current mechanical plant was reaching its replacement age, the expansion became an opportunity to improve the overall energy efficiency of the entire building.

The addition has also increased the insulation value on the northwest side of the building; improved energy efficiency through lighting choices; improved our carbon balance and overall insulation through the addition of a Green Roof. As well, many of the demolished elements were recycled.

The addition of these recreational and fitness spaces allows for more residents to benefit from healthy activity. The overall effect of increased physical activity not only creates a healthier more balanced lifestyle for residents, but also reduces health care costs. "It is an important moment in time for Pickering, its residents and for future generations,” said CAO Thomas J Quinn. "Pickering Recreation Complex is aptly named the People’s Place and I will say it again and again in the future as we continue to add exciting new programs for our residents. It has always been my goal to create a building where all members of the community could come and enjoy recreation and physical activity that suited the interests and needs of all. We have stayed true to our goal over the years. The addition has created a fitness environment that is, accessible, safe and supportive of persons of all ages and abilities.”

Come see this fantastic renewed facility and tour its new studios, courts, programs and environmental features.

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As the gateway city to the east GTA, Pickering (population 94,000) is strategically located where Toronto, York and Durham Regions meet. Pickering is an affluent community that is steeped in history, natural beauty and small town charm with all the amenities and services that a big city has to offer. The City of Pickering is considered a municipal leader in fiscal management, service delivery, sustainability and the environment; and offers a wealth of sports, leisure and recreation opportunities to its residents. Pickering has been recognized by Profit magazine as one of the ten best cities in Canada for growth companies and received the 2008 FCM-CH2M Hill Sustainable Community Planning Award.