Welland’s Maple Park getting a $400,000 makeover; aging washroom facility to be replaced

A 60-year-old washroom that doesn’t meet accessibility for Ontarians Disabilities Act standards will be replaced as the city spends more than $400,000 to upgrade Welland’s Maple Park. DAVE JOHNSON / TORSTAR FILE PHOTO

By Dave Johnson
Courtesy of The Tribune

A 60-year-old washroom that doesn’t meet accessibility standards under the Ontarians Disabilities Act will be replaced, as the city spends more than $400,000 to upgrade Welland’s Maple Park.

“The project includes three pieces. The construction of new, accessible washrooms and separate storage space, the installation of a hard-surface pathway to the washrooms from the adjacent splash pad and nearby (Clare) street, and enhanced beautification of the area for safe outdoor play,” said director of community services Rob Axiak.

Under the enhancement, garbage cans will be installed as will new benches to support age-friendly interaction, encouraging people of all ages to sit beside each other and talk.

A report by facilities maintenance supervisor Frank Pearson said the city found the use of public parks, and splash pads in particular, has been at an all-time high during the COVID-19 pandemic as residents sought ways to be active in a space conducive to social distancing.

“With this in mind, the city designed the project to improve the appeal and functionality of visiting Maple Park for the local community by removing barriers for persons with disabilities,” the report said.

City council heard a grant application to the federal government’s healthy communities program was successful and Welland will receive $313,797. The city is putting in $100,000 of its own money.

It’s another upgrade to the park that saw Maple Park Pool refurbished earlier this year.

Ward 2 Coun. David McLeod asked if the new washrooms would be on timers to unlock and lock the doors, similar to the facility at Welland International Flatwater Centre.

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