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Historic park from War of 1812 to get more than $600,000 in improvements

Three levels of government have banded together to renovate Thorold, Ont.’s historic Battle of Beaverdams Park.

Among the improvements slated for the park include the construction of a new entrance to the park with new lighting, paved walking trails, an accessible playground and washroom amenities. A central plaza will be also be created to house historical artifacts currently in the park while other project elements include upgrading the band shell by adding amphitheatre-style seating, and drainage and landscaping improvements.

These improvements will increase accessibility for all visitors while enhancing the historic and cultural experience of the park. Commemorative monuments pay homage to those involved in the decisive Battle of Beaverdams, which occurred on June 24, 1813, and was a pivotal encounter during the War of 1812.

All orders of government continue to work together for the people of Ontario to make strategic infrastructure investments in communities across the province when needed most. The federal government is investing $267,366 in this project through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream (CCRIS) of the Investing in Canada plan. The Government of Ontario is providing $222,783, while the City of Thorold is contributing $178,266.

“Better parks and public spaces are at the heart of inclusive, sustainable and welcoming communities where people want to live, work and raise a family,” Catherine McKenna, federal minister of infrastructure and communities, said. “The impact of the pandemic has only raised our awareness of how crucial parks are to our collective well-being. The federal contribution of more than $267,000 will make the historically significant Battle of Beaverdams Park more accessible for new generations of visitors. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country, and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities.”

“This project will not only enhance the park, but will also complement our downtown revitalization efforts,” Thorold Mayor Terry Ugulini said. “We look forward to the utilization opportunities that lie ahead.”