Partners and Contributors
RBJ Schlegel Park and the Cowan Recreation Centre are the result of collaboration between community leaders, governments, donors, sponsors, businesses, and sport organizations. Together, these partners have helped create Waterloo Region's premier destination for sport, recreation, and community connection. Their support, expertise, and investment have shaped a facility designed to serve residents for generations to come.
On this page:
Funding Partners
The total budget for this project is $174 million, with $30 million allocated specifically for the construction of the gymnasium. Funding for the new recreation centre comes from previously announced grants by the federal and provincial governments, as well as development charge revenues. This means the facility’s construction will have no impact on municipal taxes.
The Government of Canada has invested more than $11.7 million to date through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, and the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program.
The Government of Ontario has invested $18.1 million to date from the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Fund and the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund.
These grants from other orders of government have been critical to the project's progress and ongoing success.
Read the staff report and consultants' report for more information.
Naming and Legacy Partners
Significant community contributions have helped shape RBJ Schlegel Park and the Cowan Recreation Centre into a vibrant destination for sport, recreation, and community connection. Through the vision, generosity, and lasting commitment of RBJ Schlegel Urban Developments and The Cowan Foundation, these spaces have been enhanced to support active living, health and wellness, and meaningful community experiences for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
Their landmark investments have helped create a dynamic community hub where residents can connect, compete, and belong for generations to come. These contributions continue to ensure the destination remains innovative, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of the community.
If you are interested in Naming Rights opportunities or would like more information regarding sponsorship, please contact sponsorship@kitchener.ca.
Land acknowledgement
The City of Kitchener is situated on the traditional territory of the Chonnonton, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee Peoples. We recognize our responsibility to act as stewards for the land and honour the original caretakers who came before us. Our community is enriched by the enduring knowledge and deep-rooted traditions of the diverse First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples who live in Kitchener today.