This 70,000ft² expansion project was a 3P (Public Private Partnership) between Lundy, Serco Facilities Management, Griffin Rankin Cook Architects, and the City of Ottawa. The Ray Friel Centre is now the largest recreation centre in East Ottawa. The expansion included a new NHL-regulation size twin pad arena as well as child-care facilities, a physiotherapy clinic, and a restaurant overlooking one of the new ice sheets. A combination of pre-engineered and conventional steel building systems were used to balance project costs with space programming requirements. The existing recreation facility and adjoining library remained fully operational during construction. To ensure the safety of the facility occupants, the front entrance and reception area were temporarily relocated.
The design and construction team focused on creating a facility with natural flow between building areas, energy efficiency, and great ice. Special attention was given to how the rinks are lit, making this facility a favourite for many hockey teams across the city.