Niagara Olympic Club president Sharon Stewart didn’t waste any time when the Ontario government announced the $200-million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund this past March.
Once the criteria for the fund was announced in August, the club was ready to roll in anticipation of the Oct. 29 deadline.
“Although this is a short turnaround time, our application is ready to go. We have a business plan, partnerships, quotes, endorsements and passion,” Stewart said, during a presentation to city council Monday.
The club had worked on its strategic plan in 2021 and 2022 because it knew the facility needed a facelift, starting with a complete resurfacing of the track.
The $1.4 million project is eligible for 50 per cent funding from the province through the fund and the Niagara Olympic Club appeared before city council Monday night asking for: 30 per cent of the capital cost; the extension of the current lease agreement to five years beyond the project completion date; and, a letter of permission from the city to undertake the project. City council agreed to support the application and asked city staff to report back on the request for funding.
“Sometimes, just sometimes the stars align and an amazing opportunity presents itself. This tells me that we have to seize the moment and rebuild the legacy. Our passion has never faded,” Stewart told council.
The ultimate goal is to have the facility ready to host the 2026 Ontario Federation of School Athletics Association track and field championships. It is the South Region’s turn to host that year.
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