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EAST FERRIS, Ont. — A new project announced Friday is poised to improve access to recreational opportunities by providing a larger, safer, and more accessible facility for residents of all ages in East Ferris.
Community members are the beneficiaries when all the levels of government work toward a common goal, noted East Ferris Mayor Pauline Rochefort. The dignitaries who joined the virtual session agreed with the mayor as they collectively announced a $1.45-million collaborative investment in the Corbeil Park Recreation Hub.
"On behalf of the citizens of East Ferris, the Municipality wishes to thank the Federal and Provincial Governments for their generous investment in our recreational amenities in Corbeil," said Rochefort. " Recreation is at the heart of why many residents choose to live in East Ferris and the project improvements will ensure that our amenities support our expanding community."
The project includes improvements to the park's soccer field; the addition of an overhead cover with lighting for the outdoor rink; the renovation of the existing tennis court and the construction of another court; lighting and signage for the parking lot; and, the replacement of playground equipment with new accessible equipment. Corbeil Park and its associated community hall are located off Highway 94 behind the municipal building and fire hall.
Rochefort said the transformation of Corbeil Park will unfold over the course of a few years. She noted the new cover over the outdoor rink will also serve as shelter for various activities all year round, including seniors' line dancing and shuffleboard. The additional tennis court will also come in handy to provide a place for pickleball enthusiasts to play. Rochefort said more than half of East Ferris residents are age 50 and up.
Lefebvre called Corbeil Park "a place for residents to stay active for years to come."
Said Fedeli, "The project renovations will enable East Ferris greater recreational opportunities by providing a larger, safer, and more accessible outdoor space for all to enjoy. Supporting cultural and recreational infrastructure projects like this helps to make our communities stronger and more inclusive."
The Government of Canada is investing $581,222 in this project through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is providing $484,303, while the Municipality of East Ferris is contributing $387,530.
"It's always wonderful for the people in the riding to see the three levels of government working together toward a common goal," observed Rota.
With the impact of COVID-19 on families and the livelihoods of Canadians at the forefront, Canada and Ontario say they are partnering to reduce the impact of the pandemic, ensure health and safety, rebuild businesses, and promote job creation, growth, and investment.
Mayor Rochefort and East Ferris councillors were joined by Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre, who made the announcement on behalf of Catherine McKenna, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, while Nipissing MPP and Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Vic Fedeli, represented Laurie Scott, Ontario's Minister of Infrastructure. Nipissing–Timiskaming MP and Speaker of the House Anthony Rota was also online for the virtual joint funding announcement to rehabilitate and expand Corbeil Park Recreation Hub.
"Recreational facilities are the heart of Canadian communities. With the Municipality of East Ferris celebrating its 100th anniversary this year, these improvements to Corbeil Park will make this vital community hub the place for residents to stay active for years to come," said Lefebvre. "Canada's infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country, and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities."
