As many of you know, soccer is a very popular sport in our community, and in recent years this popularity has grown.
Children, parents, coaches and fans have all identified the need for quality sports fields to meet this increased demand.
I have been working hard to meet those demands in time for the arrival of warmer weather.
On your behalf, I worked with city staff, and the 2014 city budget now includes upgrades for the McNicoll sports field at McNicoll Park near Don Mills and Finch.
The renovated field will feature a new artificial turf allowing for more competitive play, lower maintenance costs and a better recovery from extreme storms that have damaged the field in the past.
The upgrades will also improve the lighting and bleachers.
Renovations for the field will begin this year as soon as weather permits (don’t worry — spring will eventually come).
These improvements at McNicoll Park are in keeping with last year’s upgrade to the children’s splash pad.
There are also big plans for a new sports field, park and community centre on Sheppard Avenue East beside the Bessarion subway station.
This location is going to be a significant destination for the entire Willowdale area.
Plans for this huge park include a central piazza for public gatherings, play areas, skating opportunities, a farmers’ market and much more.
For more information on these projects, to get involved in future planning opportunities or to attend community meetings, please feel free to contact me at councillor_shiner@toronto.ca.