A major donation from Walker Aggregates is helping Amherstburg move ahead with long-awaited improvements to H. Murray Smith Centennial Park.
The donation will be used for pathways, parking areas, and the foundation work for new sports courts. In recognition of the contribution, the new courts will carry the Walker name.
Mayor Michael Prue says taxpayers have saved a significant amount as work gets underway.
“Walker Aggregates has donated to the Town of Amherstburg $100,000 worth of stone and crushed materials that we are going to use on our H. Murray Smith Centennial Park,” he said.
He says partnerships with local businesses can make a big difference when it comes to municipal projects.
“$100,000 is the equivalent of about a third of one per cent on the tax base. So for every $300,000 we spend, that’s about one per cent additional taxes,” said Prue.
He says the redevelopment has been years in the making.
“It’s taken all this time to get this park back and the momentum to start rebuilding, and it’s going to be start rebuilding this fall, so we’re excited,” he said.
Walker president and CEO Geordie Walker said the company is proud to support a community where many employees live and work.
The town expects construction at Centennial Park to begin this fall, with completion targeted for next year.