To better understand the project
An overview of the future Cultural Centre in Beaconsfield: a welcoming, inclusive and inspiring place for all.
About the Project
What’s the difference between the Imagine Centennial project and the Cultural Centre?
Imagine Centennial is the name of the broader revitalization project for Centennial Park and the Lord Reading Yacht Club site. The future Cultural Centre is the first phase of this transformation. Additional elements will follow, including outdoor event zones and play areas.
Why is this project important?
The Beaconsfield Library and Centennial Hall are at the heart of our community and cultural life, but they are no longer adequate. They are undersized, outdated, and not accessible to all. Meanwhile, demand for programming continues to grow, as more than 125,000 visits were recorded annually in our cultural facilities.
Our current infrastructure creates barriers: residents living with disabilities cannot fully access our spaces.
The site selected for this project is exceptional, between lake and forest, close to the civic hub, but it also requires major upgrades.
This project addresses real needs and brings together nature, the lake, culture and community in a seamless “one-stop-shop” experience. It will improve quality of life in Beaconsfield, today and for generations to come.
Has the project been shaped with community input?
Yes, from the very beginning. In 2015, a city-wide consultation and forum identified two key priorities:
- Revitalizing and enhancing Centennial Park
- Improving cultural and community infrastructure
In 2016, the Urban Planning Advisory Committee recommended integrating the Marina into the park to create a large public waterfront space.
In 2019, more than 300 residents, including association leaders, participated in co-design workshops. Their input led to 11 key recommendations developed by the Reimagining SPACE steering committee, which shaped the project.
Half of the members on the architectural competition jury were Beaconsfield residents, and all were experts in their respective fields.
It’s a project shaped by the community, for the community.
Budget & Financing
What is the total cost of the project?
The total cost of the project is approximately $28.6 million.
A significant portion of this amount is funded through government grants and other external contributions.
The remaining balance is financed by the City, with a limited impact on property taxes.
Can the City afford this project while preserving its long-term financial health?
The City is in sound financial health. The project has been structured in a prudent and responsible manner.
The total project cost is approximately $28.6 million. Nearly $16.9 million comes from confirmed grants, dedicated funds and private contributions. The portion to be financed is approximately $11.7 million.
Please consult the table below to better understand the various amounts related to the project.
| Project cost (including contingencies, professional fees and financing costs), net of taxes | $28,622,513 |
| Available funds and confirmed grants | $13,534,608 |
| Amount of the loan by-law | $15,087,905 |
| Other sources of financing to come (confirmed: $1.875M; anticipated: $1.5M) | $3,375,000 |
| Net cost to be financed by the City | $11,712,905 |
What is the impact on taxes?
The anticipated tax impact for the net amount to be financed, once construction is fully completed, is $82.61 per year for a home of average value, estimated at $1.1 million.
The current interest rate (February 2026) for a $11.7 million loan is approximately 3.47%.
Long-term financing for municipalities is provided through the issuance of notes or bonds following a tender process administered by the Québec Ministry of Finance. At the conclusion of this tender process, financing is awarded to the lowest compliant bidder. Municipalities thus have secure and advantageous securities at their disposal and can therefore keep borrowing costs as low as possible.
below median
above median
What is the Cultural Centre Campaign?
The Cultural Centre will be built. The funding is secured. This campaign is not a financial necessity. It is an invitation.
An opportunity for every resident who wishes to say: I helped build something that belongs to all of us.
Every dollar raised beyond our $2 million goal will go directly toward reducing the amount borrowed by the City,
and lowering the tax bill for everyone. But above all, this is your chance to write your name into Beaconsfield’s story.
The Centre
Will the Centre be accessible to everyone?
Yes, it will be 100% accessible. Universal accessibility is fully integrated into every aspect of the project, from design and layout to furniture and programming. This includes: barrier-free spaces, adapted washrooms, a multisensory “zen” room, inclusive signage and accessible outdoor paths. Programming will also be designed with neurodivergent individuals and caregivers in mind.
Every visitor will feel welcome, supported and at ease.
What tangible benefits will the Centre bring to the community?
- Reduced social isolation
- Improved physical, mental, and social well-being
- A one-stop destination combining culture, community life, and access to nature
- Support for volunteerism and community engagement
- Inclusive space welcoming all: families, seniors, youth, newcomers, individuals with disabilities, local artists and organizations
- Year-round access to a safe, inclusive and stimulating environment
The Park & Site
What are the next steps for the park?
The Beaconsfield Cultural Centre is part of a broader vision to revitalize Centennial Park. It represents a key step within a comprehensive plan aimed at gradually enhancing the site’s amenities and infrastructure.
The order of implementation and priorities will be determined as part of a future three-year capital expenditures program, based on available resources and Council’s direction.
Will the park be reduced to make room for the Centre?
No. On the contrary, the park will grow. The integration of the Lord Reading Marina site will increase green space by 48%. The Centre will be located on the previously paved section of the marina, eliminating vehicular access to the park. Centennial Park will be restored and revitalized, with new trails, gathering areas, a rooftop lookout, and improved shoreline access.
What is the environmental impact of the project?
The Centre has been designed with sustainability in mind: mass timber construction, green roofs, strategies to optimize natural light inside the building, mature tree preservation, and on-site rainwater retention. The project does not aim for formal certification, it embraces an environmentally responsible approach, contributing positively to its context, both environmentally and socially.
Community Impact
I participate in activities with a community group. Will our activities be affected?
No. The Centennial building will only be deconstructed once the new Centre is built and ready to welcome activities.
Groups will therefore not be affected by the construction work. Activities will continue as usual, and our team will support associations to ensure a smooth transition to the new Centre, which will offer more accessible spaces better suited to their needs.
How will the project support a more resilient community?
The project integrates sustainable design and natural infrastructure to better manage environmental impacts and adapt to changing conditions.
By creating a greener, more accessible and adaptable space, it helps support the well-being and resilience of the community over the long term.
How will this project help reduce social isolation?
The Cultural Centre will create a welcoming, accessible place where people can meet, connect and participate in community life.
Through shared spaces, activities and everyday interactions, it will help build relationships and strengthen a sense of belonging.
Philanthropic Campaign
What is the Campaign goal?
The Campaign aims to raise $2 million from the community to help bring the future Cultural Centre to life, in complement to public funding.
It is also an opportunity for residents to be part of a shared project that will benefit the entire community.
Why are we raising funds for a municipal project?
Because residents want to be part of something meaningful, a legacy project that strengthens our community. This Campaign gives everyone in Beaconsfield the chance to help create a place that truly belongs to all of us. Every gift counts. Every contribution moves us closer to bringing this Centre to life.
What do you mean by “philanthropic”?
Philanthropic means more than just raising funds, it is about people coming together to help build a place by and for the community. A good example are the community events, organized by local groups to raise funds for the Campaign. By participating, the community helps create momentum and shared purpose around a place that truly feels like “ours.”
Can businesses make a donation?
This phase of the Campaign is focused on individual contributions from residents, as part of a broader effort to build community ownership around the project.
Businesses interested in supporting the Centre are invited to contact Patrice Boileau, Director General, to explore opportunities: patrice.boileau@beaconsfield.ca
Can I make a donation in honour or in memory of someone?
Yes! You can make a donation to celebrate a birthday, milestones, and special occasions of any nature. Donations are eligible for tax receipts, which are issued to the donor.
Will I receive a tax receipt for my donation?
A tax receipt is issued for all donations of $20 and over.
For donations made online, the receipt is generated automatically and sent by email to the address provided.
For donations made through other payment methods, a receipt will be issued by the City of Beaconsfield and sent by email or by mail, according to the donor’s preference.
Are there naming opportunities?
Yes. Naming opportunities are available for larger contributions and offer a meaningful way to leave a lasting mark in the Centre.
Additional recognition options, including the upcoming Community Wall, will also be available.
I want to help! Are you looking for volunteers?
Yes. Residents can get involved as Community Ambassadors, helping share information, build connections, and support the Campaign in ways that feel natural and flexible. Time and energy are the most important contributions, donating is optional.
Timeline & Next Steps
What is the future of the Centennial building and when are changes planned?
The Centennial building will remain accessible throughout the construction of the new Centre. In the short term, no changes are planned for users.
Originally built in 1941 as a private residence, the building has reached the end of its useful life. It no longer meets current needs or accessibility standards, and the cost required to upgrade it would exceed its value. Structural issues, including concerns with the rear balcony, as well as water infiltration problems, are also present.
In accordance with the recommendations of the Reimagining SPACE steering committee, the building will be deconstructed at a later stage as part of the site revitalization, in keeping with sustainable development principles.
What will happen to the space currently occupied by the Library?
The building that currently houses the Library will not be demolished. Located in a strategic area, it will be subject to an opportunity and feasibility analysis, in collaboration with members of the community, in order to determine the most appropriate future use of the space.
When will the Centre open?
The construction call for tenders is expected in fall 2025, with groundbreaking scheduled for spring 2026. The Centre is expected to open by summer 2028.