Shaping a new vision for Small Arms Inspection Building on the historic Arsenal Lands

- Expression of Interest submissions sought for dynamic and ever-evolving mixed-use space on Mississauga's waterfront -

TORONTO, June 23, 2014 /CNW/ - Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) is seeking Expression of Interest (EOI) submissions and proposed vision for an adaptive re-use of the 43,000 square foot Small Arms Inspection Building on prime waterfront location, on the north-west corner of the Arsenal Lands property, a rich historical site, at the foot of Dixie Road in Mississauga. The building renewal is expected to support a local mixed-use community and ensure the success and vibrancy of the Lakeview neighborhood and compliment future waterfront projects. The Small Arms Inspection Building Renewal Project supports TRCA's strategic plan to create complete communities, new development and redevelopment that achieves a more sustainable balance and integration of natural and built elements.

The project, with support from City of Mississauga and Region of Peel, is backed by a strong community driven plan, supported by the Small Arms Society (formerly the Lakeview Legacy Foundation), to create a new vision for this historic landmark building as a future centre to support a unique combination of office, studio and community spaces, with an emphasis on promoting culture, arts, heritage, scientific research, idea exchange and small business opportunities.  The redevelopment project will support the transition of the Lakeview community into a vibrant urban community as proposed in the City of Mississauga's ongoing Inspiration Lakeview and Local Area Plan planning processes.

"This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a future vibrant waterfront community," said Nick Saccone, Director, Restoration Services Division, Toronto and Region Conservation.  "The building is in excellent shape for adaptive reuse. It is close to local transit, the Waterfront Trail, Regional Parks and Waterfront open spaces and will be part of the growing community. TRCA envisions that the building will be restored in a fashion that respect's the building's rich history and with the environmental sustainability in mind. We look forward to receive some innovative ideas for this valuable space."

The Arsenal Lands, a 15.7 hectare parcel of land, were acquired by TRCA in 1992 on the eastern border of the Mississauga waterfront. The Arsenal Lands have played an important role in Canada's cultural heritage and is a site filled with history.  The Small Arms Inspection Building was designed by Allward and Gouinlock Architects and continues to be an important artefact in Ontario and Canada's history.  The building and the existing water tower are the last remaining structures of the larger Small Arms Limited munitions plant built in 1940 to provide support to Allied Forces during World War II.  The building was originally designed to provide inspection and administrative purposes to the larger Small Arms Limited munitions plant.  In 2009, City of Mississauga designated the Building as being of cultural heritage value or interest under the Ontario Heritage Act.

TRCA is looking to identify interested parties with the creativity, expertise and financial capacity to partner with. Submissions are welcome from public and private individuals/firms, in both the non-profit and for profit sectors.  EOI submissions are due August 29 and a mandatory building tour for perspective bidders is scheduled for 1:00pm on July 24, 2014 - Please RSVP to TRCA Project Manager.  

Expected benefits:
- Attraction for small businesses to the Lakeview Community
- Contribution to the health, vibrancy and diversity of the community
- Preservation and interpretation of the remaining heritage feature that represent the Lakeview areas contribution to the war efforts in WWI and WWII
- Promotion of education and research related to sustainable urban design and planning
- Enhancement of public amenities and connected network of regional parks and open spaces and,
- Promotion of art and culture.

Requests For more information about submitting an Expression of Interest, submissions requirements, timelines and/or process, can be found at http://trca.on.ca/smallArmsBuilding.

Inquiries regarding the Expression of Interest submissions can be made to:
Ethan Griesbach, M.Sc., LEED AP, ENV SP
Project Manager II, Project Management Office, Restoration Services Division
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority
[email protected].

Inquiries must be received in writing (Email) no later than 5:00 pm on August 1, 2014.

About Toronto and Region Conservation

With 60 years of experience, Toronto and Region Conservation (TRCA) helps people understand, enjoy and look-after the natural environment. Our vision is for The Living City®, where human settlement can flourish forever as part of nature's beauty and diversity.  For more information, call 416-661-6600 or visit us at www.trca.on.ca

SOURCE: Toronto and Region Conservation Authority

For further information: For media interviews, photos, tours please contact: Rowena Calpito, Supervisor, Public Relations, Toronto and Region Conservation, Tel: [phone] ext 5632, E-mail: [email protected]