The Huntsville Curling Club (HCC) has received a $200,000 capital grant from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) to make the facility fully wheelchair accessible for all curlers and visitors.
“Ensuring that recreational facilities are accessible for everyone to enjoy is a priority for our government,” said Graydon Smith, MPP for Parry Sound–Muskoka. “This renovation will ensure that anyone who wishes to curl can do so, and that all visitors are able to access the building safely and comfortably. I’m grateful to the Ontario Trillium Foundation for supporting this project, and I thank the Huntsville Curling Club for their commitment to making their facility truly open to all.”
Officials said the funding will help with the final phase of renovations, which includes the demolition and complete reconstruction of the washrooms and change rooms to make them fully accessible.
“This OTF grant is transformative for us,” said Ron Kreutzer, President of the Huntsville Curling Club. “It allows us to complete the final phase of our accessibility plan and welcome even more people to experience the sport of curling and the community spirit for which we are known.”
Sarah Thatcher, OTF representative, said they saw this grant as a “smart investment” because it helps the HCC continue to provide more accessible, energy-efficient space for people to gather and have fun in the years to come.
“We’re pleased that this $200,000 grant will help do the structural, electrical, and plumbing work needed for the project,” said Thatcher.
Previously, officials said other renovations have taken place to make the facility more accessible, including constructing a fully accessible main entrance and installing a lift to ensure all participants can easily reach every level of the facility, including the ice surface.
According to officials, these upgrades guarantee that individuals of all ages and abilities can safely participate in curling and community programs within a truly welcoming environment.
