Ripley-Huron Community Centre Renovations Celebrate Accessibility Milestones with $500,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation Grant

Press Release
For Immediate Release
November 27, 2023

HURON-KINLOSS, ON: The Township of Huron-Kinloss proudly announces the successful completion of a transformative renovation project at the Ripley-Huron Community Centre, generously funded by a $500,000 Ontario Trillium Foundation Grant and championed by the support of MPP Lisa Thompson. The revitalization initiative, spearheaded by Domm Construction, began in September 2022 and reached completion in September 2023.

The highlight of the renovation is the revamped main entrance, featuring a state-of-the-art glass foyer with automatic touchless doors, ensuring enhanced accessibility for all visitors. The removal of the old ticket booth has created a spacious, open environment for smooth foot traffic flow. The main entrance boasts new ceiling tiles, LED lighting panels, and wood beams that harmonize with the historic theme of the building. Local artist Rachel Simpson has adorned the walls with vibrant paintings showcasing logos of various sports organizations, creating a welcoming atmosphere as patrons enter.

The project also focused on improving accessibility with the addition of two new fully accessible dressing rooms. These rooms are equipped with push-button accessible doors and accessible shower and washroom stalls to ensure inclusivity for all users. A new storage room adjacent to the dressing rooms features a roll-up door and an upgraded heating system, enhancing the overall functionality of the dressing rooms. The installation of new sports flooring in the lobby, hallways, and dressing rooms enhances both aesthetics and performance.

"We are thrilled to unveil the newly renovated RHCC, a project made possible through the generous Ontario Trillium Foundation Grant and the unwavering support of MPP Lisa Thompson," said Mike Fair, Director of Community Services. "These enhancements not only modernize our facilities but also ensure that RHCC remains a welcoming space for all members of our community. We extend our gratitude to everyone involved in making this vision a reality."

The Ripley-Huron Community Centre invites the community to experience the transformed space and looks forward to hosting a variety of events and activities in the revitalized facility.