On Wednesday, July 28, Mayor Frank Campion visited the site of the Empire Outdoor Multi-Purpose Sports Facility, which is currently under construction.

Also in attendance were Councillors Jim Larouche, Bonnie Fokkens, Adam Moote, John Chiocchio, Claudette Richard and Bryan Green. Mark Tutton and Matthew Forezli of Empire Communities joined Pickleball representatives Liz MacDonald, Ruth Feagan and Brian Harvey. Michele O’Keefe of the Niagara College Knights was also in attendance.

The Empire Outdoor Multi-Purpose Sports Facility includes the following facilities:

• Tennis Courts
• Beach Volleyball Courts
• Pickleball Courts
• Basketball Courts
• Yoga/Stretching Area

“Empire Communities has offered a great opportunity to the City of Welland,” said Mayor Frank Campion. “This is a tremendous facility focused on sports recreation, which is essential for our growing community and destined to become a true community destination. The Empire Outdoor Multi-Purpose Sports Facility offers quality recreation facilities to our residents for years to come.”

The partnership between the City and Empire Communities highlights the City’s commitment to collaboration with companies investing in Welland.

“At Empire, we pride ourselves on delivering best-in-class communities across Ontario,” said Mark Tutton of Empire Communities. “We are also exceptionally proud of our efforts that extend beyond the boundaries of our projects and contribute to a broader community building exercise. The Empire Outdoor Multi-Purpose Sports Facility at the Welland International Flatwater Centre embodies these efforts and establishes our connection with the community of Welland for many years to come.”

“Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in North America, said Liz MacDonald. “The Welland Pickleball Club is open to all levels and abilities. Join the fun, join the club.”

“The Empire Outdoor Multi-Purpose Sports Facility will be an amazing place for the youth of Welland to play. We are very fortunate to have this incredible collaboration with the City of Welland, Empire Communities and Jumpstart investing in Welland,” said Michele O’Keefe, Associate Director, Athletics & Recreation at Niagara College.