Over $4M in renovations being done to Centre In The Square
Posted Mar 9, 2021 04:47:00 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Kitchener's Centre In The Square will look different when we are finally allowed back in entertainment venues again.
Over $4 million worth of renovations have been approved for the 41-year-old theatre and performing arts centre.
The funding was announced Tuesday morning by local MPs, MPPs and the mayor of Kitchener.
The federal government will be kicking in $1.7 million, $1.3 is coming from the provincial government, the City of Kitchener is providing $800,000 and Centre In The Square will contribute over $360,000.
Some of the work includes washroom renovations, including replacing plumbing and fixtures.
The second project will see the replacement and reconfiguration of almost 1,900 seats in the theatre to allow for more accessible seating, as well as improve access to the main lobby.
“Few people know this but the Centre in the Square is, in fact, recognized across Canada and beyond for its acoustic superiority,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “There isn't any comparable venue in terms of size, equipment, and professional team within Southwestern Ontario and it's right here in Kitchener, right here in Waterloo Region.”
“Investing in community, culture, and recreational infrastructure is essential to creating communities where families want to live, work and raise their children. The accessibility upgrades to the Centre In The Square, the region's largest and busiest performing arts centre, will encourage participation in cultural activities and allow for all residents to enjoy concerts and performances comfortably.” added Raj Saini, MP for Kitchener Centre.
No firm timeline has been set, but the renovation work could start in the summer.
Centre In The Square opened in 1980.
– With files from Casey Taylor
