Support from OTF Grant and Federal Grant Gives Martin Valley Park a Facelift

Penetanguishene, ON – On Friday December 1, 2023, the Town of Penetanguishene invited guests to a ribbon-cutting ceremony and to see the results of Martin Valley Park’s much-needed facelift, thanks to funding provided from various levels of government. The project was funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF), an Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) Capital grant and the Town of Penetanguishene.

"Congratulations to the Town of Penetanguishene on the incredible renovation and joyful reopening of Martin Valley Park, thanks partly to the $150,000 OTF Capital Grant through the province,” said Jill Dunlop, MPP for Simcoe North. “May this enhanced, accessible green oasis become a haven for community gatherings, laughter, and cherished moments for generations."

In late 2022, the Town of Penetanguishene received the good news that it was successful with its application for a $150,000 Capital grant from OTF. Funds from the grant were used by the Town to build a natural playground and outdoor classroom at Martin Valley Park.

The Enabling Accessibility Fund provides funding for projects that make Canadian communities more accessible for persons with disabilities. The Town of Penetanguishene received a $38,894 grant that’s helped with the work at Martin Valley Park to transform it into a beautiful, accessible green space.

"We are thrilled to have received these grants to help us improve our community's recreational infrastructure. The Martin Valley Park renovation is just one of the many ways we are investing in our town," said Mayor Doug Rawson. "We thank OTF and the Federal Government for their support in making this project a reality."

As part of the project, additional playground equipment was installed alongside an outdoor classroom area. The park's picnic areas were also enhanced, with the installation of new tables, gazebo and benches. In addition, the park's entrance was re-landscaped to provide a more welcoming and attractive entrance for visitors including the addition of parking spaces.

To view the Martin Valley Park Design project, please visit connectpenetanguishene.ca.

Ontario Trillium Foundation: The Ontario Trillium Foundation’s (OTF) mission is to build healthy and vibrant communities across Ontario. As an agency of the Government of Ontario, and one of Canada’s leading granting foundations, last year, OTF invested over $110M into 1,022 community projects and partnerships. Visit otf.ca to learn more.

Enabling Accessibility Fund: The Enabling Accessibility Fund (EAF) provides funding for projects that make Canadian communities and workplaces more accessible for persons with disabilities. EAF aims to create more opportunities for persons with disabilities to take part in community activities, programs and services, or access employment. Visit www.canada.ca to learn more.