Mountainside Recreation Centre is back in business with even more to offer.

The newly renovated Mount Forest Drive community centre officially re-opened its doors to the community on Jan. 2 after 18 months of construction.

Mountainside, built in 1969, is now an integrated facility with the arena and pool connected via a corridor. It also boasts a new ice surface, lobby, change rooms, concession and public washrooms, as well as two new community rooms.

The whole design is much more community friendly, commented Mayor Rick Goldring, who was on hand for the celebration, which offered a Tim Hortons free skate, a chance to view the public art concept for the facility and the new youth room.

The upgrading and overhaul initiative included the re-development of the surrounding Mountainside Park at a total cost of $9.3 million. Outdoor enhancements included a new splash pad and pool deck, new playground, multi-use court with skate features, trail installations and seating areas.

The revitalization project was an opportune time to further enhance the facility with a public art piece, said Angela Paparizo, the city’s manager of arts and culture.

“We want people to appreciate art. We want them to see there is sports and recreation but there is (also) arts and culture,” she said.

Along with public consultations, artist Simon Frank, who was chosen by a community jury through the Public Art Program, has met with local residents and explored the urban woods to formulate his concept.

“All of that information goes into my ideas, sometimes very directly, sometimes just more as fuel,” said Frank.

Mountainside also offers Burlington’s newest space for teens. No Socks for Ivan is a free program that was designed by, and for, Burlington youth that will run every Friday between 8-11 p.m. The evenings will include skating as well as other activities, games, music and food.