Government funds build up accessible playground

Construction of a fully accessible on-site field house at Robinson Playground in the city's South End will soon begin following a $19,267 grant from the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund.

"I am so happy as the ward councillor to have worked with city staff to substantially leverage tax dollars through the EAF program to make the very popular Robinson Playground even better,” said Ward 1 Coun. Joe Cimino.

“The very active and dedicated Playground Association and I have worked diligently to make this jewel of a facility more attractive to a variety of users, and now we can boast another huge achievement, that it is a truly barrier-free club house."

“The Government of Canada is proud to help Canadians with disabilities gain better access to community facilities, programs and services all across the country and right across Northern Ontario – including here in Sudbury.

"We are dedicated to ensuring that all Canadians have the opportunity to participate more fully in all that society has to offer,” said Greg Rickford, Minister of State for Science and Technology and FedNor and Minister Responsible for the Ring of Fire.

Through this project, individuals with disabilities will have full access to the field house with the addition of a new walkway, a new ramp at the door, and accessible washrooms.

The objective of this project is to promote inclusion and to provide a safe and accessible space where people of all abilities can participate in social activities, such as card games and other gatherings offered by the Robinson playground association, said the city in a news release.

“I thank the Government of Canada for its support of this project and recognize the dedicated fundraising efforts of the Robinson Playground Association,” said Greater Sudbury Mayor Marianne Matichuk. “I look forward to seeing residents of all abilities enjoying these facilities.”

Construction at Robinson Playground is set to begin in September. For more information about this project and other accessible recreation opportunities offered by the City of Greater Sudbury, call 311.