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Canadian Forces members and their families at 9 Wing Gander will soon benefit from a brand-new Military Family Resource Centre. The new building, to be located on the base, will feature a daycare, an after-school program, a commercial kitchen, and a community room for events such as baby groups and craft nights.

The $8 million project broke ground in September, with an expected completion date of spring 2026. Notably, it will be the first structure at CFB Gander built from cross-laminated timber (CLT) instead of traditional steel framing.

“It was recommended by the architect as a green option and provides a different look to the building—a warmer feeling,” said Tracey Eisan, Site Manager at ������Ƶ Gander.

According to Paul Leavitt, ������Ƶ Coordinator, Construction Services, CLT costs more than steel, but construction goes faster and produces far less waste, since beams are prefabricated to specifications.

“It’s a very low environmental impact. They’re easy to install, strong, with superior acoustics, fire, and thermal performance,” said Paul.

Most of the construction work will be done by local tradespersons, and all supplies other than the CLT have been sourced within Newfoundland.

Tracey says the new centre will be a huge improvement for military families, since the existing facility is located far from the base, housed in repurposed PMQs with limited community space.

“It’s going to allow the users of the MFRC to also use the recreation centre and the pool. It will be within walking distance of all the buildings and facilities here at the base.”