With a goal of achieving an energy-efficient structure built to LEED Gold standard, and the potential to reduce the scope of the original design, the city has hired an architect for its new recreation complex and library.

Council approved the move Tuesday after the city received six competitive bids on the project.

Staff selected Toronto firm MacLennan Jaunkalns Miller Architects Ltd. after carefully considering all options including cost.

The cost to complete the concept and design work on a modified build has been set at an upset limit of $460,000 and increases the total design budget on the project by $799,380 for a total revised budget of $6.3 million.

Staff recommended the additional costs come from a draw of $63,383 from the capital works reserve fund, $297,534 from development charges applied to parks and recreation, and $438,463 from development charges collected for libraries.

Last year, council approved the development of a multi-use recreational facility in the city’s south-east end featuring aquatic facilities, gymnasium space including FIBA sized courts, running track, and multi-purpose recreational space.

The building will also include a branch of the Idea Exchange that will offer areas for reading, lounge, maker space, children’s literacy programs, and studying.

The new council will be tasked with deciding on which route to go with the rec complex once the architects complete their designs.

Keep reading on kitchener.citynews.ca