MEDIA RELEASE – July 6, 2024
$87,400 Ontario government OTF Grant has rejuvenated the Nairn Ball Field and Playground
Nairn Centre – On Saturday, MPP Michael Mantha and representatives from the Township of Nairn and Hyman met up for a grand opening ceremony at the Nairn Ball Field and to mark the work that’s been done as a result of receiving an $87,400 Capital grant from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). Since receiving the grant last fall, the Township has been used to support the rejuvenation of the Nairn Ball Field and the adjacent playground.
“It’s fantastic to see the Nairn Ball Field and Playground getting a fresh new look thanks to the Ontario Trillium Foundation grant,” said Michael Mantha, MPP for Algoma-Manitoulin. “These updates mean more fun and safe spaces for everyone to enjoy. I’m grateful to have been able to support Nairn Centre, and happy to know the community will have a great place to gather for years to come. Let’s keep making Nairn Centre a wonderful place to live and play.”
For the playground area, the grant was used to install a new play structure, safe surfacing, two benches and an accessible picnic table, creating a safer and more engaging area for families and children. The Ball Field has also received updated fencing in areas where it was badly damaged, allowing the field to be safe for sporting activities once again.
“The Township is so excited that the Ontario Trillium Foundation has awarding this grant to improve our recreational facilities. These types of facilities are the centre of our community and with the upgrades, we are now able to host a wider variety of recreational events, sporting activities and have a safe place for all residents and visitors to enjoy,” said Mayor Amy Mazey. The Township’s CAO, Belinda Ketchabaw noted that, “The Staff are very excited to see the facilities being used everyday again.”
Recreational facilities are identified in the Township’s Official Plan as a top infrastructure priority to Council and an important component of the quality of life to residents in the area. The Township of Nairn and Hyman is a small rural community located just west of the city of Greater Sudbury, Ontario along Highway 17. Established as a logging industry on the Spanish River in 1896, Nairn Centre is the core residential area. Although the Spanish River is no longer used for logging, the area still offers a wide range of recreational activities for all to enjoy.
“Whether it’s helping people learn new things, connect with their community, or simply have fun, organizations like the Township of Nairn and Hyman deliver experiences that make a difference,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “That’s why grant support through the Ontario Trillium Foundation is so important. This funding will help ensure that the ball field and playground remain at the heart of the community for decades to come.”
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested more than $110M into 1,044 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
OTF Funding Media Release Township of Nairn and Hyman (July 6 2024)