Kitchener brings renewed Boathouse one step closer to reality

The City of Kitchener has moved forward on the next steps to breathe new life into the Boathouse, a key venue in the heart of Victoria Park.

The preferred proposal from Walkinshaw Holdings Inc. envisions transforming the Boathouse into an iconic venue for live music, food, and indoor and outdoor entertainment. The proposal places a focus on social responsibility, with paid local live music a minimum of two days a week, and locally sourced food and drink. Walkinshaw Holdings would also establish a local arts fund and form a Community Advisory Committee to ensure that Boathouse programming is inclusive and diverse.

“One thing is clear to me – Kitchener residents love the Victoria Park Boathouse and the historic role it has played in Kitchener’s music scene. Our community, staff and Council all see the potential for this beloved venue in the heart of Kitchener,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “I am thrilled that this new proposal will see a renewed Boathouse return as a restaurant and live music and entertainment hotspot for residents and visitors from near and far once again.”

Walkinshaw Holdings is made up of a team of local entrepreneurs with decades of collective experience in the restaurant industry, entertainment, marketing, fundraising, business, and technology. The team includes Amber French, Kurtis McBride, Shawn Flanagan, Sean Goodchild, Taylor Jones, James Barr, and Corey Watterson.

“We're beyond excited to reimagine such an iconic venue. This is a chance to recognize that heritage isn't just who we were, but also who we are and who we want to be. Kitchener is a diverse and growing community; The Boathouse, at its heart, should be a place where everyone feels at home” said Walkinshaw business team partner James Barr.

If approved to move forward, Walkinshaw would make a significant investment in the facility to offer a waterfront experience unique to Waterloo Region. Proposed investments include expansion of the outdoor patio, upgrading the interior, improving the main entrance and enhancing the views of Victoria Park Lake. They will also ensure that noise from live music is well-managed.

“A re-imagined and active Boathouse will truly complement Victoria Park and Downtown Kitchener,” said Ward 9 Councillor Debbie Chapman. “I look forward to watching it come alive as a go-to spot for lovers of local food and live music.”

As the proposed modifications require approvals and/or review from external agencies, a final agreement is not anticipated until later this year. If approved, Walkinshaw anticipates welcoming the community in the Spring of 2023.

For more information, contact: 
Shawn Falcao,  
Manager, Corporate Communications and Marketing 
shawn.falcao@kitchener.ca