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intersect with a street level aquatics centre and library via a 4-storey atrium that includes a main feature stair. A vegetated roof canopy colonnade lead toward the main entrance along the east side of the building stretching from Sheppard Ave to the parking garage entrance provides pedestrians with covered walkway at grade, says Pecchia. 10 per cent of the facility’s power had to be generated on site and the roof was topped with pho¬tovoltaic panels. Some of the facility’s other sustainability measures focus on the site’s water strategy, including bio¬swales and stormwater drainage and retention; additionally, passive light and temperature control was incorpo¬rated both inside and out. A project like this is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and it will service the community is many tangible ways, both predicted and delightfully unexpected. “Overseeing the delivery and being involved in a project of this magnitude has made my entire career as a public servant feel rewarding,” says Pecchia. “My role provides me the unique opportunity to work with a large team of dedicated individuals, whose work directly contributes to the long-term health and wellbeing of residents who use and love the facilities we build. It incredible to see a project through the many stages; planning, design and community engagement, and into to the construction process. To see the vision come to reality is very fulfilling. Knowing that I had a small part in changing the urban fabric of the city and ensuring the community will be well served with a facility that will last for many generations to come, is truly a legacy in one’s career.” For more information about the new facility and the program offerings, please visit the facility website. www.toronto.ca 49 JUNE 2023 | BUSINESS ELITE CANADA

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