Despite the rain, spirits were bright during a ground breaking ceremony on April 8 for the new $2.1-million multi-use recreational facility in Puslinch.
“I think it’s a tremendous thing to bring the people of this area together to support this facility,” said Wellington- Halton Hills MP Mike Chong.
“The funds provided for this project … are helping the local economy but more importantly, leaving a lasting benefit for families of this area.”
Chong thanked members of the Optimist Club of Puslinch, who helped with the planning and funding for the facility. MPP Ted Arnott also praised the club, which has committed to raising $380,000 towards the facility, representing about half of the township’s share of the overall cost.
“I think it’s a really important building and [the Optimists] deserve to be acknowledged in the community as well,” Arnott said.
The federal and provincial governments will each contribute $716,328 to help build the facility, which will include a gymnasium and partially enclosed ice pad that could also be used year round for other Sports like ball hockey and basketball, and maybe for a picnic area or farmer’s market.
Arnott also thanked Puslinch councillors and staff members for “an outstanding job” on the planning, but Mayor Brad Whitcombe deflected praise in the direction of Optimist Club members.
“This is the brainchild, the idea, of the Optimist Club … This project would not have been possible without them,” said Whitcombe, pointing out the important role played – particularly during the funding application – by Ken Williams, the club’s past president.
Williams said the Optimist Club is proud to be involved in a project that will bring local families together.
Township consultant Hans Groh, of Gamsby and Mannerow, who was heavily involved in planning the new facility, said his firm was also honoured to take part in the process.
“It’ll be nice to see the day when it’s finished,” Groh said.
Blaire Gateman, vice-president of construction contractor Gateman-Milloy Inc., said his firm has put together a great team for the project.
“Now we feel like we’re part of the team and we’re really excited about that,” Gateman said. “We’ll do you proud.”
The new facility on Brock Road will be more than 14,000 square feet in size and should be completed by this winter.
