Welland City Council has approved phase one of a multi-phased canal redevelopment strategy focused on funding new initiatives and amenities that will enhance the city’s waterfront experience for families, individuals, and tourists. The phase one changes will be completed at the city’s Lincoln Street Docks over the next four to six weeks.
The components of phase one include: installing approximately 120 feet of public use dock along with ladders for unsupervised swimming as well as placement of public use amenities including picnic tables, benches, bike rack stands, BBQs, shaded sitting areas and covering, and decorative stone and plants to enhance the aesthetic value.
“Our waterway is an important part of our history, and it will be an integral part of our future,” said Welland Mayor Frank Campion. “The changes and new initiatives approved by Council will support the transformation and rejuvenation of our waterway that we envision over the next few years with new recreational amenities and new residential and commercial development.”
“One of our goals with phase one is to lay foundation to complement existing uses such as the new Skateboard and BMX Park adjacent to the waterway, and support future development ideas that will attract interest and passion for the waterway,” said Richard Dalton, the City’s Manager of Recreation and Culture, who also oversees the Welland International Flatwater Centre (WIFC). “This is a first step towards future opportunities for more significant recreational development in the area including the potential to create a multi-purpose recreational hub at the Lincoln St. Docks location.”
Future project phases being reviewed include the relocation of the Welland Boat Rental Program to the Lincoln St. area, along with a new capacity for food & beverage vending, new sport and game facilities, and expanded installations for swimming and low cost opportunities to enjoy the waterway.
