A FRESH SPLASH
Renovations Underway at John Abbott College

John Abbott College and the Government of Québec's Programme de soutien aux infrastructures sportives et récréatives scolaires et d'enseignement supérieur (Support Program for Sports and Recreational Infrastructure in Schools and Higher Education Establishments) are excited to collaborate in the renovation of the Casgrain Sports Centre and Pool.

The project, Réfection des installations aquatiques (Renovation of aquatic facilities), is expected to be completed by winter 2027. The Government of Québec granted the College $6 million for the project.

The renovations will include a ramp into the pool to facilitate accessibility, a renovated spectator's mezzanine overlooking the pool and the addition of windows on the exterior wall to allow natural light in. With the pool comes a full transformation of the changing rooms, now redesigned for accessibility and outfitted with modern amenities. Temporary changing rooms have been relocated near Casgrain-0079.

The renovations will enhance campus infrastructure by optimizing space, improving accessibility, and incorporating sustainable practices, benefiting both the Facilities Management Services department and the wider College community. These upgrades will create a modern, efficient, and inclusive environment, encouraging greater use of our facilities by students and staff, while also providing access to the surrounding communities. Ultimately, these improvements will help foster a stronger, more vibrant community both on and off-campus.

- Stephanie Soussamian, Director, Facilities Management Services, John Abbott College

With the pool and amenities exceeding 45 years of age, the renovations are necessary to update the facilities' offerings, maintain the structure of the facilities, improve the building's life safety systems, and the emergency exits. The new facilities will continue to promote student learning and community involvement.

The renovations to the aquatic facilities at the John Abbott College sports centre have come at just the right time for students, staff, and the surrounding community. I am delighted that the pool will continue to be used for many years to come, allowing everyone to continue making physical activity a central part of their lives.

- Isabelle Charest, Minister responsible for Sport, Recreation and Outdoors

Many facilities remain open, including the weight rooms, squash courts, dojo, and gymnasiums. The Sports Desk is also open for equipment rentals such as camping gear, bird watching gear, cross-country skiing and more.