Redevelopment of the former Kelvin Community Centre site officially got underway last week following months of delays.

Contracts for the work were to have been finalized by the end of May following months of public consultations.

However, a series of delays result in the start of the project being pushed back until the Oct. 25 ground-breaking ceremony that was attended by area residents and local dignitaries.

Funding for the project was provided  by the city and province through the Building Communities Initiative.

The city contributed $400,000, while the province provided $300,000.

The final design for the site includes a skateboard area with rails and a bowl, a basketball court, pleasure skating rink, children’s art wall, and a fitness trail.

Area resident Moira Honey said it’s unfortunate the project was delayed, but she’s happy to finally see it moving forward.

"I’m so excited that this community had the tenacity to go forward with this," she said.

"When different levels of government come together to work with the community good things happen."

Elmwood MLA Jim Maloway said the upcoming work is only the start of redeveloping the site.

"It was six years ago that the city demolished the old club against the wishes of residents," Maloway said.

"We’re very happy with the $700,000 but we would like to see more work done on the site with a building named after Clara Hughes."

Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux said having recreational opportunities for youth is vital to any community.

"Recreation is so important to this city and all communities," Lemieux said. "Young people need a place to go, if they don’t they’ll find a place to go and it may not be something we want them involved with."

Elmwood resident Carlos Sosa said last week’s announcement is a step in the right direction.

"There’s momentum here. As a community we can see a new building here," Sosa said.

adrian.alleyne@canstarnews.com