Share your feedback to help build Kitchener’s new centre for older adults

Kitchener launches community engagement for Rockway Centre redevelopment

The City of Kitchener is excited to announce the launch of community engagement for the redevelopment of the Rockway Centre. This cherished community hub, known for its welcoming atmosphere and age-friendly programming, is set to be transformed into a new, dedicated older adult centre—and the City wants to hear from you.

Starting now and continuing through to September 30, the City will be gathering feedback from older adults across Kitchener to better understand the programs and site features they envision for the new facility. The insights collected will shape the design of the new centre and inform the Request for Proposal (RFP) process, as the City seeks a development partner to bring this vision to life.

"As Kitchener’s only dedicated community centre for older adults, for many decades, the Rockway Centre has been a space where residents come together to socialize and participate in a wide range of programs designed specifically for them," said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. "By centering this engagement on the voices of older adults in our community, we can create a modern, purpose-built facility that better meets the needs of Kitchener’s aging population and serves as a hub for age-friendly programs, activities, and meaningful community connections for generations to come."

The focus of the redeveloped centre will be on building a welcoming, accessible, modern new facility that includes amenities like a gymnasium, large multi-purpose rooms, accessible washrooms, and other spaces specifically designed for older adult programming.

"There are many ways for older adults to get involved in this exciting project and significantly impact the next phase of the redevelopment process and the future look and feel of the facility," said Community and Infrastructure Services Committee Chair, and Ward 8 Councillor, Margaret Johnston. "The City is committed to building a centre that residents will enjoy and love as much as the current Rockway Centre. By hearing from a diverse range of older adults, we can best understand their needs now and ensure we plan for a facility that will continue to meet those needs well into the future."

Ways to get involved

Complete the survey

• Visit www.EngageWR.ca/Rockway to fill out an online survey. Paper copies are also available at all City community centres and indoor pools.

Join an in-person event

• Rockin’ it at Rockway: Share your feedback and enjoy a free ice cream treat during the show at Rockway Centre on Aug. 14 and 21, from 6-8 p.m.
• Welcome Back BBQ: Give input during a special encore Rockin’ it at Rockway event on Sept. 11 from 6-8 p.m. featuring live music and a free BBQ at the Rockway Centre. Registration is required. Please register online or call by phone at 519-741-2507.
• Coffee Socials: Share your thoughts over complimentary coffee and tea at:
  • Rockway Centre, Sept. 12 noon-2 p.m.
  • Kingsdale Community Centre, Sept. 16, 9 a.m.-noon
  • Rockway Centre, Sept. 18, 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
  • Breithaupt Centre, Sept. 24, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

On April 29, 2024, City Council approved a three-phased approach to advance the Rockway Centre
redevelopment project, which includes a Request for Information (RFI), community engagement and a Request for Proposal (RFP). In May, the City began that process with an RFI that sought input and information from interested partners to collaborate on a new centre. The launch of community engagement is the next step in a lengthy process to determine what the future facility will look like. As this project continues, the City is committed to working with current users of the centre, as well as older adults from across the city, to create a space that better meets their needs while providing a warm and friendly environment to call their own.

To learn more about this project, visit www.kitchener.ca/RockwayRedevelopment or visit the project page on www.EngageWR.ca/Rockway.

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For more information, contact:
Bethany Rowland
Director, Corporate Communications
City of Kitchener
bethany.rowland@kitchener.ca