City of Kitchener investment supports local innovation and enhances customer experience at Cowan Recreation Centre

The City of Kitchener is investing in local innovation and supporting local jobs through the purchase of a robotic floor cleaner from Kitchener-based company Avidbots. Developed and manufactured in Kitchener, the new robotic floor cleaner will be used to maintain the 33,800 square foot quad-gymnasium floor at the Cowan Recreation Centre at RBJ Schlegel Park, set to open late this year.  

This investment reflects the City's commitment to supporting local businesses and strengthening Kitchener's economy while continuing to provide high-quality services and experiences for residents at its community facilities. 

"Kitchener is home to innovative companies that are developing world-class technology and creating meaningful local jobs," said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. "When opportunities exist to support local businesses while meeting operational needs, it creates benefits that extend well beyond a single purchase. At this critical time for Canada, investments like this one in Avidbots demonstrates how municipalities like Kitchener can support local and build Canada’s and Kitchener’s economic development, innovation and local employment opportunities, while also continuing to deliver excellent service to residents." 

The robotic cleaner uses advanced sensors and autonomous navigation technology to efficiently clean large indoor spaces while maintaining consistent cleaning standards. The technology will help ensure the space is clean, safe and ready for residents participating in sports, fitness programs, community events and drop-in activities. 

"As a company founded in Kitchener, we're thrilled to see Avidbots technology supporting the City at the new Cowan Recreation Centre," said JJ Ethridge, CEO of Avidbots. "We're proud to help create cleaner, safer, and more welcoming spaces for residents and visitors, while showcasing robotics innovation born and built in our community." 

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About Avidbots 

Avidbots is a Kitchener-based robotics company specializing in autonomous cleaning solutions for commercial, industrial and public facilities. Its innovative technologies are used by organizations across North America and around the world to enhance cleaning efficiency and operational performance. 

About RBJ Schlegel Park, home of Cowan Recreation Centre 

RBJ Schlegel Park is where sport, recreation, and community come together. As Waterloo Region's premier destination for year-round activity, the park brings together indoor and outdoor spaces where residents of all ages and abilities can connect, compete, and belong.  

The Cowan Recreation Centre will welcome more than 500,000 visits annually and support over 30 local sport organizations. Featuring two pools, a FIFA-sized field house, quad gymnasium, indoor walking track, indoor cricket nets, and flexible community spaces, the facility will increase programming opportunities and support recreation, wellness, tournaments, events, and community connection for generations to come. For updates and more information, visit Kitchener.ca/CRC. 

For more information:  

Corporate Communications and Marketing  
City of Kitchener  
Media@kitchener.ca