With 105 days left until the 2022 Canada Summer Games kicks off, Niagara's top brass gathered on Friday to cut the red ribbon outside the multi-million dollar facility which has been years in the making.
A slew of dignitaries, including mayors, regional councillors, MP's and high ranking members of the Canada Summer Games committee took to the stand outside the Canada Summer Games Park, in front of a large crowd.
"It is a pleasure to be here," MP Vance Badawey said, representing the Federal government, and the $29 million it pitched in for the creation of the sports arena. "It will provide a facility for the Niagara community well in to the future."
Badawey said that the facility not only represents a significant sports- and recreation complex with its several thousand-feet space for sports, including multiple gymnasiums and two NHL-sized ice boxes.
"This will have an impact on the lives of Canadians," Badawey said. "Yes, you skate, play, and run here. But this is a community hub. We have busy lives, and this is where neighbours meet neighbours."
Jordie Walker, another major funding partner of the facility, said the creation of the Games Park was a major display of community work–not only though the millions Walker Industries donated to the cause.
"It is the entire ecosystem with our 1,200 employees, customers, neighbours and the earth itself," Walker said. "It really takes all that."
Thorold Mayor Terry Ugulini said it was time to replace the aging arenas in the area with a proper, grand facility.
"People may ask, why did the city of Thorold get involved? The answer is easy," he said. "Thorold is the fastest growing municipality in Niagara, the fourth fastest in Ontario, and number 8 in Canada. People who are looking to settle or invest in Niagara are looking for things like amenities and recreational facilities."
The multi-use facility still smelled of fresh glue and wood when guests were let in, eagerly touring the complex.
Several Thorold councillors seized the chance to get a peak of the facility.
"Unebelievable," said Coun. Ken Sentance. "Job well done, and they have people playing in here already," he continued, pointing at a lacrosse game being held in front of spectators to show off the game court.
"As we grow, we need more facilities like this. It will make us better year after year."
The facility will be open to the public after the games conclude in August.
