Rotary Club contributes $80,000 to twin-pad arena and library project

The Town of Wasaga Beach is pleased to announce that the Rotary Club of Wasaga Beach has donated $80,000 to the town’s twin-pad arena and library fundraising campaign.

“We are extremely grateful to the club for this very generous contribution to our project,” Mayor Nina Bifolchi said. “The Rotary Club has a long-established record of supporting important local causes. The club’s investment in our arena and library will touch many lives in the years to come.”

In recognition of the donation, the second floor multipurpose room and the youth space in the library will carry the club’s name.

Mark Winegarden, president of the Rotary Club, said it is an honour for the organization to play a role in the project.

“Literacy and health have been important areas of focus, not only for local Rotarians, but for our International organization. If we can help one person with their learning journey, that is an achievement. If we can help one team of youth experience the great leadership of their coaches, while enjoying the health benefits of team sports, that’s an achievement. The Rotary Club of Wasaga Beach is proud to be supporting a project that will serve our community for generations,” Winegarden said.

As someone who played hockey growing up and later coached, Winegarden said he looks forward to the first puck drop in the new arena and then visiting the library, exploring all it will offer.

“It’s easy to focus on the obvious, but as Rotarians we see this as an important gathering place in general,” Winegarden said. “Friendships will be forged, smiles will be shared, lessons learned and we know this will contribute to a healthier, vibrant, proud community."

Learn more about donation opportunities to the twin-pad arena and library project by visiting our website.

Project background information

In January 2019, town council identified the twin-pad arena and library project as a priority for this term. The Wasaga Stars Arena, built nearly 50 years ago, is at the end of its lifespan. The library, which opened in 1994, is too small to meet the needs of our growing community. A review, including a community consultation process, determined 544 River Rd. W. as the best site for a new 117,669-square-foot joint-use facility. When the new complex opens in the summer of 2023, it will include two NHL-size ice surfaces, an indoor walking track, a modern library with proper program space and meeting rooms. The town is funding the $59-million investment through reserves, long-term financing, and community donations.