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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSD-2025-246 - Rockway Redevelopment - New Older Adult Centre DeliverablesStaff Report J IKgc.;i' r� R Community Services Department www.kitchener.ca REPORT TO: Community and Infrastructure Services Committee DATE OF MEETING: June 16, 2025 SUBMITTED BY: Mark Hildebrand, Director, Neighbourhood Programs and Services, Community Services, 519-783-8583 PREPARED BY: Helena Foulds, Manager, Service Coordination o& Improvement (CSD), 519-904-5802 WARD(S) INVOLVED: ALL DATE OF REPORT: June 10, 2025 REPORT NO.: CSD -2025-246 SUBJECT: Rockway Redevelopment — New Older Adult Centre Deliverables RECOMMENDATION: That staff be directed to proceed with Phase 3 of the Rockway Redevelopment Strategy (as approved by City Council on April 22, 2024), and that the following deliverables for the development of the new older adult facility be included within the Request for Proposal (RFP) document: 1. 21,000 — 26,000 square feet 2. 1,200 — 1,600 square feet of outdoor space 3. Minimum of 150 onsite surface parking spaces 4. A specific area near the building entrance for drop-off and pick-up 5. Close to LRT and/or bus routes 6. A double sport gymnasium 7. Dedicated multi-purpose space/rooms for fitness programming 8. Dedicated multi-purpose space/rooms for creative/craft-base programming 9. Dedicated billiards/games room 10. One large multi-purpose room for programs and events 11. One medium sized multi-purpose rooms for programs and meetings 12.A warming kitchen 13. Large lobby space with cafe/light refreshments and lots of comfortable and accessible seating 14. Staff workspace and welcoming service counter 15. Universal & accessible washrooms, hallways and corridors (London Accessibility Standard) That, the RFP process consider proposals for developing the new older adult centre on properties that are located within 1.5 KM of the current Rockway Centre. *** This information is available in accessible formats upon request. *** Please call 519-741-2345 or TTY 1-866-969-9994 for assistance. Page 34 of 61 REPORT HIGHLIGHTS: • In April 2024, Council approved a three-phase plan to redevelop Rockway Centre (CSD - 2024 -191). Phase One (Request for Information) and Phase Two (Community Engagement) are now complete. • As part of Phase Two of this process, staff received 721 surveys through a city-wide community engagement process that focused on better understanding the atmosphere; site features and program offerings residents want to see in a new older adult centre. • Based on community input, the top site features residents want to see in a new older adult centre include (1) a cafe, (2) fitness room, and (3) outdoor spaces. • Other important considerations for a new older adult centre that were identified through public input include (1) accessibility, (2) onsite parking, and (3) diverse programs and services. • Based on the results of the community engagement process, staff developed a list of deliverables to be included in the Request for Proposal for a new older adult centre. Those requirements include a 21,000 to 26,000 square foot facility; 1,200 to 1,600 square foot outdoor space; a minimum of 150 onsite parking spaces and specific indoor amenities that directly reflect community input. • Constructing a new older adult centre at an alternate location offers significant benefits including continuity of programming, faster delivery of a new facility and funding opportunities to deliver a facility that will meet the community's needs. BACKGROUND: Rockway Centre provides a place for older adults from across the city to participate in a wide variety of programs and clubs. Originally constructed in 1950 as a transit terminal, the building is now 75 years old. The Centre sits on a 1.89 -acre triangular site bordered by King St. East, Charles Street East, and Preston Street. The site includes a 17,750 square foot community centre and two small ancillary buildings located at the corner of Charles and Preston Streets. Staff have maintained Rockway Centre to a standard that is line with other City facilities and continues to make investments in the building to keep it operational; however, there have been no significant renovations or upgrades to the facility since 2013. Previous City Council Consideration/Direction re: Rockway Centre Redevelopment 2010 • Given the challenges with the building, in 2010 City Council directed staff to prepare a feasibility study and business case analysis (including public consultation) to look at the long-term use of the Rockway Centre site for the provision of older adult programs. 2013 • In May 2013, staff presented Council with the completed Feasibility Study and Business Case. At that time City Council unanimously directed staff to consider the findings of the Feasibility Study and Business Case as part of the City's next Leisure Facilities Master Page 35 of 61 Plan and Development Charges review for prioritization against other indoor recreation needs within the city. At that time Council unanimously directed staff to "begin the Request for Proposals (RFP) process for the redevelopment of the Rockway Centre (736 Charles Street East 1 1405 King Street East) into a medium -to -high density residential building that includes a ground floor older adult/community centre (to be operated by the municipality with the option to own), as well as possible ancillary medical/dental, retail or office type uses." Council also added the Rockway Centre to the City's Municipal Heritage Register as a non -designated property; however, it took no action to designate the centre property, "until the completion of the RFP process." 2015 • Asa part of the 2015 budget process, City Council added $6M to the City's capital forecast (2024/2025) to support the redevelopment of the Centre. 2019 • The 2019 LFMP recognized that partnerships with school boards and private organizations are becoming increasingly important to municipalities as costs to build and operate stand-alone recreation facilities continue to rise. Nurturing strong partnerships and implementing mixed-use opportunities with school boards and the private sector is one way the City of Kitchener could deliver innovative recreation services and facilities. The City's 2019 Leisure Facilities Master Plan Update included a recommendation to "pursue a partnership with the private sector to redevelop Rockway Centre into a medium to high density residential building that addresses the heritage value of the property and includes a ground floor older adult community centre (to be operated by the municipality with the option to own), as well as possible ancillary medical/dental, retail and office type uses." 2024 In April 2024, City Council approved a three-phase plan to redevelop Rockway Centre (CSD - 2024 -191): • Phase one, completed in June 2024, involved a Request for Information (RFI) to assess interest from potential development partners to build a mixed-use facility with an older adult centre on the ground floor and residential and/or commercial uses above. • Phase two, completed in September 2024, focused on community engagement to identify and prioritize requirements for the new older adult centre. Staff also committed to report back to Council with key engagement findings and seek direction on the deliverables for a new older adult centre prior to issuing a Request for Proposal. • Phase three, issuing a Request for Proposal, will seek a development partner to build a mixed-use facility that includes an older adult centre within 1.5 KM of the existing Rockway Centre, and includes the deliverables outlined in CSD -2025-246. Page 36 of 61 REPORT: Results of Phase 2 (Community Engagement): In 2024, staff led a city-wide community engagement process to better understand the atmosphere, site features, and program offerings residents would like to see in a new older adult centre. The key objectives of the community engagement included building trust, generating interest and excitement about a new facility, and ensuring community voices are heard. The full community engagement results report is attached as Appendix A. As part of the community engagement process, residents had an opportunity to influence three key areas of the new older adult centre: Atmosphere The feedback collected from this category helped determine the desired atmosphere (look/feel) of the new centre. Site Features The feedback collected from this category helped prioritize the most important features like outdoor spaces, recreational areas, accessibility, etc. Programming The feedback collected from this category provided insight into the types of programs and services residents would like to see at the new centre, which will have an impact on the overall design, layout and size of the building. Staff reviewed the engagement results and used the information to develop deliverables. Ways We Engaged Engagement spanned approximately eight weeks and included online and in-person opportunities to participate. Staff received 721 survey responses and visited over 10 facilities (Rockway Centre, Breithaupt Centre, Victoria Hills, Doon Pioneer Park, Kingsdale, Huron, Downtown, Lyle Hallman, Forest Heights, Chandler Mowat, Bridgeport, Kitchener Market) during peak programming times to target the 55+ age group. Staff also hosted four informal coffee social workshops to provide residents an opportunity to ask questions and have open dialogue. Staff were present at larger events like Rockin' it at Rockway and hosted a special Welcome Back BBQ in September to encourage feedback on the redevelopment project. ® X R:s f1MUNNUIN J --i . ..... 4 mmmmi 1721 10 130 Public Surveys Engagement City Facuirities dera Board Completed Events Held Visited C:o:mnmen s Page 37 of 61 Who We Heard From • 43.3% of survey respondents said they currently use Rockway Centre, either by attending programs or accessing services, or through volunteering or instructing. • 34.8% live nearby the centre • 27.8% noted that they have no relationship or have never visited Rockway Centre which indicates the information collected reflects the views of existing Rockway users and non- users. • Approximately 83% of respondents identified as being over the age of 55. The largest group (37.8%) of respondents were aged 65-74. 7.4% of respondents were between ages 45 and 54. • There was no significant difference in survey responses between the 45-54 and 55+ age group. Both age groups indicated similar ideas and preferences. What We Heard • Atmosphere: overall respondents identified they want the new older adult centre to be a welcoming, comfortable, and social space. • Site Features: Survey participants were asked to identify the most important site features in a variety of categories. Staff heard that over 60% of respondents think it is very important for the facility to have areas for socializing and casual interactions and over 50% think outdoor spaces are very important to the overall atmosphere of the centre. • Programs & Services: Respondents were asked to share their ideas on the types of activities and services that would most enrich their experience in an older adult centre. The top five programs and services overall include strength training, cafe, special events, information about life transitions, computer and technology programs, and painting. • Open-ended comments: In addition to the feedback collected through the survey, the following themes emerged through open-ended comments and conversations during in- person engagement sessions: - Welcome and inclusive atmosphere - Diverse programs and activities - Accessible design and amenities - Safety and security - Affordability - Staff support Deliverables for a New Older Adult Centre Based on the input collected through user group and community engagement, subject matter expertise and existing programming across the city, staff developed a list of "must -have" or deliverables for a new older adult centre. Page 38 of 61 The proposed deliverables strongly reflect the community input collected through the public engagement process. Taken together, these deliverables would result in a centre that is approximately 8,200 square feet larger than the existing Rockway Centre, features 800 additional square feet of outdoor space, and 50 additional parking spaces than the current facility. This would be the City's largest community centre. Staff recommend the following deliverables for a new older adult centre be built in the Request for Proposals document: 1. 21,000 — 26,000 square feet 2. 1,200 — 1,600 square feet outdoor space 3. Minimum of 150 onsite surface parking spaces 4. A specific area near the building entrance for drop-off and pick-up 5. Close to LRT and/or bus routes 6. A double sport gymnasium 7. Dedicated multi-purpose space/rooms for fitness programming 8. Dedicated multi-purpose space/rooms for creative/craft-base programming 9. Dedicated billiards/games room 10. One large multi-purpose room for programs and events 11. One medium sized multi-purpose rooms for programs and meetings 12.A warming kitchen 13. Large lobby space with cafe/light refreshments and lots of comfortable and accessible seating 14. Staff workspace and welcoming service counter 15. Universal & accessible washrooms, hallways and corridors (London Accessibility Standard) NOTE: Appendix B includes a detailed description and rationale for the deliverables outlined above. London Accessibility Standard The City of London has become a leader in accessible design by delivering services and facilities that go above and beyond the standard requirements of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Building Code. This exceptional level of service and investment to remove barriers to accessibility through dignity and accessibility planning is referred to as the "London Accessibility Standard". The City of Kitchener incorporated many elements of this higher accessibility standard for the Kitchener Indoor Recreation Complex and will deliver the same level of accessible design in the new older adult centre. Location of a New Older Adult Centre Staff are seeking Council's direction to explore and evaluate proposals to build the new centre on alternate properties within 1.5 KM of the current Rockway Centre site. While the existing site holds significant community sentiment, relocating the facility nearby would enable the City to deliver and construct a modernized centre with enhanced amenities more efficiently. This approach would also minimize disruption to ongoing programs and users during construction at the current location. Page 39 of 61 Minimizes Program Disruptions Constructing the new centre at an alternate site would enable uninterrupted operation of the existing Rockway Centre throughout the construction. Residents would maintain full access to programs and services until the new facility is completed and operational. It might be possible to build a new older adult centre on the existing site while keeping the existing facility open; however, this option will likely result in higher costs, an extended timeline and significant inconvenience to people attempting to use the centre. The current Rockway site will require environmental remediation adding a further complication and to ongoing operations and any future construction. Furthermore, retaining the existing building on-site would limit the City's ability to pursue strategic partnerships that may become available at other sites and limit the full redevelopment potential of the existing property (limiting potential land value). Unlocking the site's full value would require the removal of the current facility, which would require the relocation of existing programs during construction. While some programming could be relocated to other community centres, increasing demand on these facilities would likely limit availability and reduce the scope of programming. Staff have examined alternatives, such as leasing nearby spaces, but this would result in increased operating costs and potential service reductions. Additionally, keeping the Rockway Centre operational while building on the same site would significantly disrupt access and likely require the complete closure of on-site parking — a major barrier to users' ability to access the building. Additionally, construction impacts may include dust, noise, vibration and other impacts to users and the current facility. Faster Delivery of a New Older Adult Centre Rockway Centre has been maintained to a standard that is consistent with other City -owned facilities. Given the age of the building and planned redevelopment, there have been no significant renovations. Based on a 2023 site and facility assessment, the Facilities Management team advised that Rockway Centre can continue to operate in it is current state, with regular maintenance and some modest investments, for up to five years. Given the site constraints and changing economic impacts of new large-scale developments, it is less likely that the City will secure a development partner for a mixed-use facility in the next five years. However, exploring alternate locations presents an opportunity to partner with an organization that has an active project or plans to build within the next five years on a site they already own. Fundinq for a Facility that Meets Community Needs In 2014, Council allocated $6M in the10-year capital forecast for the construction of a new older adult centre. However, due to rising construction costs and ongoing inflation, this initial allocation is no longer sufficient. To deliver a facility that meets the evolving needs of the community and Page 40 of 61 aligns with the priorities identified through public engagement, the City will need to secure additional funding. Building the new older adult centre at an alternate location would allow the City to sell the existing Rockway Centre site and re -invest those funds into the development of the new facility at a different location. The funds generated through a land sale will significantly reduce the gap that exists between the allocated funds and the anticipated budget which has increased due to rising construction costs and inflation. ENGAGEMENT: The Rockway Advisory Committee reviewed and provided input into staff's recommendation contained in this report (including the detailed list of deliverable for a new older adult centre). The advisory committee was supportive of both recommendations in CSD -2025-246. STRATEGIC PLAN ALIGNMENT: This report supports the delivery of core services. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Funding from 2022-2026 for the City's contribution to a partnership for the redevelopment of the Rockway Centre is $6,750,000. In addition to this capital funding, there may be an opportunity for the City to contribute additional funds through the value of the lands on which the current centre is located. PREVIOUS REPORTS/AUTHORITIES: (add names of report) • CSD -013-047 — Rockway Centre Feasibility Study and Business Case Final Report • CSD -013-051 — Rockway Centre Recommendations • CSD -2024-191 — Rockway Centre Redevelopment Strategy Update APPROVED BY: Michael May, DCAO & General Manager, Community Services ATTACHMENTS: Attachment A — Rockway Centre Redevelopment Engagement Results Report Attachment B — Rockway Redevelopment RFP Deliverables Page 41 of 61 Executive Summary Rockway Centre is Kitchener's only dedicated older adult community centre where residents can come together and participate in a wide variety of programs designed specifically for them. Situated on a 1.89 -acres, Rockway Centre includes a 17,750 square foot facility with 11 program rooms, a cafe, outdoor patio, billiards room, pottery shed, and commercial kitchen. In 2023, the centre recorded 30,747 visits for various programs, including fitness classes (Chair Pilates, Zumba), learning programs (technology, cooking, pottery), social groups (cards, billiards, crafts), wellness programs (yoga, meditation), and community events (Rockin' it at Rockway, holiday bazaars). Rockway Centre was originally constructed as a transit terminal in 1950 and has been operating as an older adult centre for 50 years. The existing building is in need of many repairs; and does not provide residents with the amenities they deserve. As a result, the facility no longer meets the diverse needs of our older adult population. While the City has done its best to make the building work, the current layout and structure simply don't serve the community well. If we want to truly meet the current and future needs of older adults, we need a new centre. In 2024, staff conducted a comprehensive community engagement campaign to better understand residents' interests, needs and desires for a new older adult centre. Next, the City will conduct a transparent and competitive bidding process to seek out a development partner build a new older adult centre either on the existing site at 1405 King St. E. or at a location nearby. The information collected through the engagement campaign will be instrumental in the decision-making process to select the right development partner. The enclosed report includes the results of the 2024 Rockway Redevelopment: Your Centre, Your Say campaign. As the City continues the process of redeveloping Rockway Centre into a new, purpose-built facility that better meets residents' needs, we are committed to collaborating with the centre's current users and older adults from across the city. 1 Project Background The idea of a more modern and functional older adult recreation facility was first presented to Council in 2013. At that time, the decision to build a new centre on the existing site (1405 King St. E.) or at a location nearby was deferred to a Request for Proposal (RFP) process. Further, the City decided to maintain the existing Rockway Centre until a new facility could be built at a later date. The redevelopment of Rockway Centre was noted againin 2019 when Council received the Leisure Facilities Master Plan which included a recommendation to pursue a partnership with the private sector to redevelop Rockway Centre. City Council allocated $6 million starting in the 2024/2025 capital budget to fund the City's portion of the redevelopment partnership, which could also include the value of the Rockway Centre current site/land. Public Engagement Throughout 2023, staff talked with more than 140 residents from a variety of stakeholder groups to get their initial thoughts on how best to develop a new, modern older adult centre. In 2024, staff led a broader community engagement effort to better understand the atmosphere, site features, and program offerings residents would like to see in a new older adult centre. The results of this engagement, which gathered input from 721 residents, are outlined in the enclosed report and will be used as a decision-making tool to develop criteria for the Request for Proposal. Development Process The redevelopment of Rockway Centre is a complex and lengthy project. The first step involves finding an appropriate development partner interested in building a mixed-use facility that could include an older adult recreation centre on the ground floor with possible ancillary medical/dental/retail/office or residential types uses above. Staff have identified four phases (below)that will result in a Request for Proposal with the goal of finding a development partner for a new older adult centre. Spring 2024 Information Gathering The City will collect information from potential partners interested in redeveloping Rockway Centre. Summer/Fall 2024 Community Engagement The City will work with the Rockway community and older adults across Kitchener to identify the requirements for a potential partnership. Winter 2025 Internal Workshops Subject matter experts from various City departments and the Rockway Advisory Committee will work together to identify criteria for the new centre based on the public input gathered in phases 1 8 2. ;H Late 2025 Request for Proposals The City will begin a competitive bidding process to find a partner that can meet its requirements for a new older adult centre. 2 Engagement Overview The purpose of this engagement initiative was to gather input from older adults across the City of Kitchener to better understand the type of atmosphere, site features and programs/services they would Like to see in a new older adult centre. While many efforts focused on current Rockway Centre patrons, staff also sought feedback from residents citywide, including those who use other recreation facilities or have never visited Rockway. Broadening the outreach ensures the new facility will meet the diverse needs of the community, recognizing that a dedicated older adult centre will attract individuals from across the city. Further, the age demographic was expanded to adults 45+ to better understand what the next generation of older adults would like to see in a new older adult centre. The City hopes to build a modern and innovative facility that will serve Kitchener's older adults for many generations. Recognizing the emotional investment of Rockway patrons, relationship -building and trust were essential components of this engagement plan. Understanding and reflecting the community's needs through engagement efforts will be paramount in shaping the future of the Rockway Centre. This document provides an overview of community engagement, methods, metrics and results, and summarizes key themes. Ways We Engaged Engagement spanned approximately eight weeks and included a variety of options for participation, both online and in-person, including a public survey. The survey consisted of several multiple-choice options, with opportunities for written and verbal feedback. 0 721 Public Surveys Completed M". 3 10 City F ciLities Visited Wea Board Con iments 3 Through the survey, the community had significant influence over three key areas of this project: atmosphere, programming, and site features: Atmosphere The feedback collected from this category will help determine the overall atmosphere (look/feel) of the new centre. Site Features The feedback collected from this category will help prioritize the features like outdoor spaces, recreational areas, accessibility, etc. Programming The feedback collected from this category will help guide the types of programs and services offered at this new centre, which will have an impact on the overall design/layout. Out of scope: Swimming, ice sports, walking track (these will be included in the new Kitchener Recreation Indoor Complex). E3 Who We Heard From What is your relationship to Rockway Centre? The majority of survey respondents (43.3%) said they use Rockway Centre today, either by attending programs or accessing services, or through volunteering or running programs. The second largest group (34.8%) noted they live nearby the centre. The third largest group of respondents (27.8%) noted that they have no relationship or have never visited Rockway Centre which indicates the information collected reflects the views of existing Rockway users and non-users. It is important to note that respondents had the option to select multiple answers, resulting in some overlap among the categories. What is your age? I have no relationship with the centre (27.8%) attend programs or access services (43.3%) I volunteer (6%) I run a program (4.5%) VIII I am part of a neighbourhood association connected to Rockway (6.3%) I am a support person/care partner (3.1%) live nearby (34.8%) Other (14.6%) Approximately 83% of respondents identified as being over the age of 55. The largest group (37.8%) of respondents were aged 65-74 and 7.4% of respondents were between ages 45 and 54. There was no significant difference in survey responses between the 45-54 and 55+ age group. Both age groups indicated similar ideas and preferences. Under 45 (7.4%) 45-54 (7.4%) 55-64 (21%) 65-74 (37.8%) 75-84 (20.1%) 85-94 (4%) Over 95 (0.1%) Prefer Not to Answer (2.1%) 5 Which group do you identify as a member of? The majority of respondents (63.5%) did not identify as a member of a specific group Listed below. VIII Person with a Disability (16.2%) Member of a Racialized Group (3.5%) Immigrant or Refugee (4%) 2LGBTQ+ (4.3%) First Nations, Inuit or Metis (2.5%) IIII None of the Above (63.5%) Prefer not to Answer (9.8%) Which of the following best describes your gender identity? Approximately 73% of respondents identified as women, while 21% identified as men. The remaining 6% identified as other or did not respond. This trend aligns with the demographics of existing Rockway patrons. In 2024, 73% of Rockway program participants identified as women and 27% identified as men. 9 What We Heard Atmosphere Overall, respondents have identified that they want the new older adult centre to be a welcoming, comfortable and social space. The top three descriptions for the ideal atmosphere of the space were: Through an open-ended question, survey participants were asked to identify particular elements they think would create a pleasant atmosphere. The most common themes included: it M��rtur1 IpllMO U iN U �lu �• n/,I���iAj�uull " Mme" , S P! ace , S r, CO arinpe 0 I I POW „1111 ���� ,„�I „u ���,,, �,,,,,,�. „a„, UI�� I(Ip(JJJQ��/ (� !""19/1/f/IUIt� l� Ji����?a IJp4w 10 1Oopl1lsz ((l�rr( fdlO�G'G%I(� Off)����� �nl11Jn11U1D1An17/���1 IIJJJ� nI111lIlIlV1!/Illllpl/I��l �� ��Ilnl11ln11U1D1An17/�� /��, �+ �p�us G J/ �� .' 411111111iuuuDU�! ilo�� In f111111iM),111i1J10� ���1kr�l�rr'lu111,�0! f atel��I��rll��ii���fighq,of go20>f tile Levi s i o 11i low" 00, 1400 Ck %a Il III ILI~ S II 7 Site Features Survey participants were asked to identify the most important site features for the new older adult centre. Through the survey, we heard that over 60% of respondents think it is very important for the new centre to have areas for socializing and casual interactions and over 50% think outdoor spaces, such as gardens or patios, are very important to the overall atmosphere of the centre. Survey participants were asked which site features they would use if they were included in the new older adults. The top three site features that were selected were: SI Cafe or Coffee -5 Shop (58%) Fitness Room or aP �y p, 9m Outdoor paces (32%) The most common responses received through the "other" category for site features included "Dance Studio" and "Lawn and/or Carpet Bowling." Outdoor Features Survey participants where asked which outdoor features they would use if they were included in the new older adult centre. The top three outdoor site features selected by respondents were: Shade Structure Patio Seating Areas (63.8%) Tf � %) ;q (59.2%) Transportation Features Survey participants were asked which features would make it easier for them to get to Rockway Centre. The top three transportation features selected by respondents were: Onsite Parking 000P (84.5%) Bicycle i,,,.ock-up (3.1%) 0 Accessibility Features The new centre will be built with all standard modern accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, wide hallways and accessible washrooms. However, survey participants were asked which features would make the new older adult centre more accessible to them. These are features that would go above and beyond legislation. The top three accessibility features selected by respondents were: Drop-off/Window Coverings Handrails in •% to Reduce (50.6%) % (47.8%) Common responses received through the "other" category, open-ended conversations and idea boxes pertaining to accessibility included an emphasis on making washrooms accessible for individuals, including features like wider doorways or door -free entries, raised toilets, grab bars and handles at accessible heights. Cultural and Religious Spaces Respondents were asked which cultural or religious spaces they would use if they were included in the new older adult centre. The top three cultural and religious spaces selected by respondents were: Art Et Cultural Dedicated Space Exhibition Space Cultural ion (45.6%) Celebrations°!° (m%) go ) 9 Programs ft Services Respondents were asked to share their ideas on the types of activities and services that would most enrich their experience and meet their needs through the development of a new older adult centre. The top five program and activities overall include strength training, cafe/coffee shop, special events, information about life transitions and painting. When considering the top three programs and services for each recreational category, staff were able to better understand the diverse interests among older adults. Top 3 Programs & Activities by Category The wide range of program offerings at Rockway Centre are highly valued by the community. Understanding the types of programs and services that older adults are interested in will help the City design multi-purpose spaces that can accommodate a wide range of recreational needs. 10 Open -Ended Feedback Respondents had an opportunity to provide written comments throughout the survey. In addition, several in-person engagement sessions were hosted that led to meaningful conversations and ideas. The following themes emerged from written and verbal comments provided throughout the engagement campaign. Note, in addition to staff review, artificial intelligence was used to analyze the open-ended comments of the survey. Welcome Et Inclusive Atmosphere Creating a welcoming, friendly, and inclusive environment was repeatedly highlighted. This includes having friendly and approachable staff at a reception desk, a comfortable and un -intimidating atmosphere, and spaces that encourage socialization. Many advocated for a multi -generational approach, opening the center to younger members of the community. Diverse Programs ft Activities Respondents suggested activities ranging from fitness classes and sports (including coge indoor lawn bowling), arts and crafts, social events, educational workshops, and cultural opportunities. There was a strong desire for programs catering to different Levels of mobility and health, as well as requests for activities that encourage mental stimulation and social interaction. Accessible Design Et Amenities Respondents expressed preferences for a bright, clean, and comfortable space ,,,,,,,,,,,,,1k with natural light, appropriate acoustics, and well-designed spaces for various activities that meet accessibility standards. Many requested an outdoor area with seating, a cafe, and sufficient washrooms. Several comments specifically addressed the need for appropriate flooring and accessible washroom facilities. Safety ft Security The importance of a safe and secure environment was repeatedly stressed. This included concerns about indoor air quality, adequate lighting, and security measures to prevent verbal abuse and ensure the overall safety of visitors. Affordability Respondents emphasized the need for affordable programs and services, including reasonably priced meals and exercise classes. Clear communication about programs and events through various channels (e.g., social media, newsletters) was also identified as crucial. Staffing Support STAFF The quality of staff and their role in creating a welcoming environment was consistently praised. Suggestions included having well-trained, patient, and friendly staff, as well as a designated senior connector to assist with linking to community services. 11 Next Steps The next phase of this project will consist of workshops with subject matter experts comprised of City staff and members of the Rockway Advisory Committee. Based on a variety of information, including the engagement results detailed in this report, staff will develop recommended mandatory and secondary criteria to be included in the Request for Proposal (RFP). The criteria for the Request for Proposal will be presented to Council in 2025. Once approved, the City will initiate the Request for Proposal seeking a development partner to build a mixed-use facility that includes an older adult centre. Acknowledgement We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all individuals and groups who participated in the engagement efforts related to the Rockway Redevelopment project. Your time, feedback, and ideas play a crucial role in shaping the vision for a new older adult centre that will serve our community for many generations. We especially thank the following groups for their contributions: • Rockway Advisory Committee • Grand River Accessibility Advisory Committee • Mayor's Advisory Committee for Kitchener Seniors • Eastwood Neighbourhood Association • Auditorium Neighbourhood Association • FRIENDS • Chain Gang at Rockway Centre • Morning Out Group (Rockway Centre) • Rockway Adult Colouring Group • Morning Out Group (Forest Heights Community Centre) • Rockway Centre staff Your engagement in this process has been essential, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration as we move forward with the redevelopment project. Thank you, City of Kitchener 12 Appendix B — Deliverables for RFP & Rationale General Building & Site Requirements: Requirement Description Alignment to Comparison to Community Input Existing Facility Building size 21,000 to 26,000 ✓ Allows the City 3,250 to 8,250 square feet. Staff to build a facility square feet larger determined this an that meets a than existing appropriately sized wide range of Rockway Centre facility to meet community programming needs both now requirements based on and into the other facilities and future. programming needs. Outdoor space 1,200 to 1,600 square ✓ One of the top 400 to 800 square feet three community feet larger than priorities existing Onsite parking Minimum of 150 ✓ One of the top 50 parking spaces parking spaces three community more than current priorities for site transportation features Proximity to Close to LRT and/or ✓ One of the top Current site is near public bus routes three community a bus stop (Route 7) transportation priorities for transportation features Accessible drop- Specific area near the ✓ One of the top Does not exist at off and pick-up building entrance for three community current site zone drop-off/pick-up to priorities for accommodate accessibility caregivers, Mobility features Plus etc. Page 54 of 61 Program Specific Requirements: Program Alignment to Comparison Requirement Description Community Input to Existing Facility Gymnasium Double sport gymnasium ✓ Active recreation Does not exist (like Country Hills, Victoria for all ages at current site Hills) which will allow for ✓ Racquet sports sport programming (i.e., ✓ Walking groups pickleball, volleyball, badminton, boot camp fitness classes, community events and indoor winter walking groups) Multi-purpose Multi -use space with ✓ One of the top Fitness fitness room appropriate flooring and three community programs are mirrors for fitness and priorities spread across active programming ✓ Appropriate sport- various rooms (standard in other flooring with lack of community centres) ✓ Strength training appropriate ✓ Yoga flooring. Creative maker Multi -use space with sinks ✓ Pottery Pottery kiln is space and workstations for ✓ Painting located creative and craft -based ✓ Arts & crafts outside, programming. Includes a ✓ Adequate creative lockable storage area for a workspace & programs are kiln storage for spread out supplies across multiple rooms with lack of storage. Large multi- Large multi-purpose space ✓ Social events Better use of purpose room to be used for a variety of ✓ Card and game space than programs and events groups existing site ✓ Flexibles ace Medium multi- Medium multi-purpose ✓ Flexible space for Better use of purpose room space to be used for a medium to small space than variety of programming, group activities existing site meetings, etc. ✓ Educational sessions, book clubs, card groups, etc. Billiards/games Designated billiards and ✓ Dedicated space Larger than room games (e.g. cards room for billiards existing site Warming kitchen Small warming kitchen ✓ Fridge, Underutilized microwave, sink commercial for serving food at kitchen at events, programs current site Page 55 of 61 Lobby/open Lobby space with a cafe ✓ One of the top Larger than seating area with (light refreshments) and three community the existing cafe adequate seating that is priorities site larger than the existing ✓ Large open space Rockway Centre lobby for social gatherings ✓ Cafe included within the lobby space ✓ Adequate light and seating to create a welcoming and bright environment Customer Service Service counter to greet ✓ Supportive and Similar to Desk and serve customers friendly staff existing site Staff workstations Workstations and offices ✓ Supportive and Similar to and offices for supporting staff friendly staff existing site Adequate storage Adequate storage ✓ Staff/resource More storage for equipment and throughout the facility to requirement than existing resources store tables, chairs, and site programming equipment Accessible and The facility will be ✓ Accessible Current site universal designed to a high washrooms, does not meet washrooms, accessibility standard hallway size, accessibility hallways, (London Accessibility handrails for requirements corridors, Standard) easier access custodial & throughout facility mechanical rooms Page 56 of 61