Net zero carbon retrofit project at Brampton’s Susan Fennell Sportsplex to begin
The Voice of Canada :
The City of Brampton will begin its first net zero carbon retrofit project at Susan Fennell Sportsplex. Construction at the sportsplex will be done in phases to minimize disruption of recreation programs.
Phase one will begin on Monday, April 15, 2024, and Rinks 3 and 4 will close for approximately 12 months. During this period, there will be no other scheduled closures. The pool and fitness areas will remain open during most of the construction. This phase is anticipated to be completed by spring 2025.
Phase two is anticipated to begin in the spring of 2025 and Rinks 1 and 2, the pool and the youth hub will be closed. During this period Rinks 3 and 4 will be available. This phase is anticipated to be completed the end of 2025 with no impact to fall 2025 recreation programs.
The City’s recreational facilities account for nearly 50 per cent of Brampton’s annual greenhouse (GHG) emissions. Susan Fennell Sportsplex releases approximately 1,100 tonnes of GHG each year, the equivalent of 238 passenger vehicle emissions. As part of the City’s commitment to reduce the impacts of climate change and achieve the shared net zero goal by 2050, this project is anticipated to reduce annual GHG emissions at this facility by 91 per cent, which is equal to removing 550 cars off roads in a year or growing 30,000 trees for 10 years.
Key retrofits of this project will include:
- replacing lighting controls
- installing a ground source heat loop
- replacing ice rink refrigeration plants
- installing a solar thermal system for pool heating
- installing rooftop solar panels
- upgrades to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems
- installing Artificial Intelligence (JCI Open Blue Technology)
Built in 1996, Susan Fennell Sportsplex is home to hockey arenas, a library, a fitness centre, a swimming pool, and a newly opened youth hub. The multi-purpose facility is widely used by residents and visitors seeking an active and healthy lifestyle. The City remains committed to ensuring its recreation spaces and amenities meet the current and future needs of the community and it will continue to revitalize recreation centres and parks to increase access to versatile, multi-use facilities.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to visit Brampton.ca/registerforprograms for a full list of recreation programs, including skating and shinny drop-ins or lessons, offered city-wide.
