A local legion in Cambridge is planning to replace its existing facility in the next few years to better serve its increasing membership and improve accessibility.
Joe Gowing, president of the Royal Canadian Legion branch 126 located in Preston, mentioned that the current structure has been deteriorating, with maintenance costs rising over the years.
This building was acquired in 1947 from the Royal Canadian Airforce in Port Albert and relocated to its present site on Westminster Drive.
According to Gowing, who also serves as a regional councillor, renovating the existing building would exceed the cost of constructing a new one.
“We obtained estimates for renovations to address the accessibility challenges we’ve been facing, and the total came in over the $1-million threshold. Just addressing this floor alone would have required $300,000,” he shared with CBC News while in the legion’s main gathering hall.
“The financial burden to upgrade this building simply did not align with our needs. And that’s not even factoring in any hidden issues behind the walls.”
Gowing noted that they are also contending with a leaking roof, plumbing problems, and an accessibility ramp that requires repairs.
The legion is facing multiple challenges with its current building, including accessibility issues, a leaky roof, and aging infrastructure. (Carmen Groleau/CBC)
Legion to remain operational during construction
Gowing stated that the estimated cost for the new facility ranges from $3.2 million to $3.6 million. To help fund this, the legion has opted to sell the parkland across the street to the City of Cambridge as of October.
“The city had been leasing the land for park purposes for many years and aimed to preserve and continue its use as a park, complete with playgrounds, park amenities, a baseball diamond, and parking facilities for the foreseeable future,” a city spokesperson conveyed to CBC News.
“The city recognizes the vital role legions play in our community by promoting remembrance, supporting veterans and their families, fostering a sense of community, and honoring those who have served and sacrificed.”
The legion intends to construct the new building in the parking lot area, allowing operations to continue at the existing facility during the transition.
“Our primary requirement was to keep this building operational while the new one is under construction,” Gowing explained.
He also mentioned that the design of the new building has not yet been finalized, but the aim is to create a single-story facility to enhance accessibility for both members and the community.
Currently, individuals using wheelchairs must exit the building and navigate an accessibility ramp to move between floors, Gowing pointed out.
He added that construction could start as early as late spring or early summer.
Membership at the legion has nearly doubled since the pandemic, largely due to their decision to open their doors to the public. (Carmen Groleau/CBC)
Membership numbers nearly doubled
Gowing mentioned that one advantage of the new facility is the increased space it will provide for members and the broader community.
“Our lounge is currently overcrowded. Our membership has surged from 250 after COVID to 450,” he stated.
While many legions across Canada are finding it difficult to attract new members, Gowing noted that their decision to open up to the public has allowed more individuals to discover the legion and its mission.
He explained that they have extended their Saturday meat draw and sports nights to the public and have made greater efforts to engage with local schools, creating volunteer opportunities for young people.
“Who will care for those who have defended our freedoms, who will take care of them? That’s one of the reasons we realized we had to boost our membership,” Gowing remarked.
“If we don’t invite the public in to experience what we’re doing, understand our atmosphere, and learn why we exist, they won’t join us.”
Gowing expressed mixed feelings about the old building being phased out, as he has fond memories of visiting the legion regularly during his youth, but he also conveyed excitement among members for this new chapter.
“We have members who have been with us for 50 or even 60 years, and while they cherish this building, they are eager to see the future possibilities,” he concluded.