Cambridge, Ontario – The City of Cambridge is preparing to unveil the newly renovated Preston Memorial Auditorium, a long-standing community hub that has undergone significant upgrades to better serve residents. Ahead of the official grand opening, members of the media are being invited for an exclusive first look at the revitalized facility.
The preview event will take place on Friday, September 26 at 11:30 a.m., led by Shane Taylor, Manager of Recreation, Placemaking Capital Projects for the City of Cambridge. Taylor will provide a guided tour, highlighting the new additions and design features introduced as part of the major renovation.
“The Preston Aud has always been a gathering place for our community,” Taylor said. “This project reflects our commitment to modernizing recreation spaces while maintaining their role as welcoming, inclusive environments for residents of all ages.”
The official grand opening celebration is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will be open to the public and feature activities, demonstrations and opportunities for residents to experience the upgraded facility firsthand.
Investment in Community Spaces
The renovation of the Preston Memorial Auditorium reflects Cambridge’s broader strategy of investing in recreation and cultural infrastructure. Municipal leaders have emphasized that modern, accessible spaces are essential to enhancing quality of life and supporting long-term community development.
In recent years, the City has made recreation renewal a priority, citing the need to update aging facilities, expand programming options and respond to the needs of a growing population. The revitalization of the Preston Aud is part of this ongoing effort.
City officials note that the upgrades were carefully planned to balance the facility’s historic significance with new functionality. By blending tradition with innovation, the project aims to provide a space that will remain relevant for decades to come.
Anticipation for the Grand Opening
Local residents have expressed strong interest in the reopening of the Preston Aud, which has been temporarily closed during construction. The grand opening is expected to draw significant crowds from across Cambridge, underscoring the importance of the facility as a community landmark.
“This isn’t just about bricks and mortar—it’s about creating opportunities for connection,” Taylor said. “We look forward to welcoming families, young people, seniors and everyone in between back into this space.”
The September 27 celebration will showcase the wide range of uses envisioned for the auditorium. While full program details are being finalized, activities are expected to include family-friendly entertainment, interactive tours, and opportunities to learn more about upcoming recreational programming.
Broader Significance
The reopening of the Preston Memorial Auditorium comes at a time when municipalities across Ontario are placing greater emphasis on local infrastructure renewal. From arenas and pools to libraries and community centres, investments in these spaces are increasingly seen as critical to fostering economic resilience and social well-being.
For Cambridge, the Preston Aud project highlights the City’s commitment to ensuring that both established and newer neighbourhoods benefit from updated amenities. The facility will continue to serve as a venue for sports, community gatherings, and cultural events, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of local life.
By inviting the media for an advance look, the City aims to showcase not only the physical improvements but also the broader vision driving its recreation investments. The tour led by Taylor will give reporters a chance to explore the building, ask questions about the design process, and capture a preview of what residents can expect during the grand opening.
Event Details
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Media Preview: Friday, September 26, 2025, at 11:30 a.m.
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Location: Preston Memorial Auditorium, 1458 Hamilton Street, Cambridge
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Grand Opening: Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Residents seeking more information about the renovation project or the upcoming celebration can visit cambridge.ca/PrestonAud.
As the City looks to the future, the newly renovated Preston Memorial Auditorium is poised to remain a vital part of Cambridge’s community fabric. With updated features and a renewed focus on accessibility and inclusivity, officials are confident the facility will meet the evolving needs of residents while preserving its legacy as a trusted local gathering space.
