With just a few days to go until the grand unveiling of the renovated Dorset Recreation Centre, Algonquin Highlands mayor Liz Danielsen said she’s excited to finally reopen one of the community’s “beloved” assets.
The facility has been closed since March 2020 after staff found extensive mold and moisture damage while renovating a downstairs bathroom. Further investigation showed the issue was prevalent throughout the building.
Work to restore the facility began in 2022. It featured the installation of a new HVAC system, external foundation waterproofing, off-site content storage, creation of an AODO-compliant front entrance and accessible bathroom, new exterior façade, and a total remodelling of the indoor space.
There is a reconfigured fitness room, upgraded lobby area, and new space for the Haliburton County Public Library. The renovation came in at around $1.6 million and was led by Muskoka-based Gonneau Building Group.
Danielsen said next weekend’s celebration will be one for the ages.
“We are so pleased to welcome everyone to what is going to be a great community celebration and a big day for Dorset,” she said. “We know what a beloved community asset the Dorset Recreation Centre is… folks will be excited to get back into the building and use the facilities that have always meant so much to us all.”
The event runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and includes a catered lunch, speeches from local dignitaries, children’s activities, and live music by Adverse Conditions.
The official opening of the renamed Tapscott-Lopes Park, previously known as the Dorset Pavilion and Community Park, will also take place. The township assumed ownership of the space last year after it was donated by local residents Don Tapscott and Ana Lopes.
