Hanover celebrated Canada’s birthday on July 1st with hundreds of community members attending the official opening of the Canadian Tire Splash Pad. Under sunny skies and warm temperatures, Mayor Paterson, Council, Hanover Canadian Tire and Canadian Tire Jump Start Charities representatives and donors gathered in Hanover Park to officially cut the ribbon and declare the splash pad open. There were cheers and eager children who splashed in the many features once the water button was activated for the first time The splash pad was a busy spot during the remainder of the day, as Hanover celebrated Canada Day with children’s activities, entertainment and food from the Hanover Rotary Club’s charity bbq.
“On behalf of Hanover Council, I want to say how incredibly proud we are of this project”, shared Mayor Sue Paterson. “The Canadian Tire Splash Pad is more than just a place to cool off - it’s a vibrant, welcoming space that promotes free physical activity, community connection, and lots of fun for all ages. It is an exciting phase of our Centre of Excellence vision for Hanover Park and we are so pleased our community has another reason to visit and enjoy this incredible outdoor space!”
Hanover residents expressed a strong desire for a splash pad and during the recent Strategic Plan consultations, a splash pad was noted as a priority. Once council approved the splash pad project, a dedicated volunteer committee was established and tackled everything from feasibility studies and site selection to water management systems, community engagement and fundraising. The Canadian Tire Splash Pad project is a successful example of the power and importance of community driven initiatives.
The fundraising campaign was a tremendous success and a true reflection of Hanover’s spirit. The committee exceeded their $300,000 goal, raising an incredible $400,000 to support the project. There were numerous donors and no matter the amount, each contribution was important to the project. Joining Mayor Paterson and proud committee members for the ribbon cutting ceremony were Diamond donors, Canadian Tire Hanover - The Cousins Family, Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities and Hanover Rotary Club and Platinum donors Electrical Contacts Limited and Cobide Engineering Inc.
The Canadian Tire Splash Pad is located at Hanover Town Park, 780 7th Avenue, and is open 9 am to 8 pm daily, weather permitting. The underwater themed splash pad includes a variety of water features including dumping buckets, water spray creatures and in ground fountain sprays. There is a covered shade area, benches, picnic tables and accessible washrooms at the site. Those using the splash pad are to refer to the rules of use at the facility’s entrance.
For more information about the splash pad, visit hanover.ca or contact 519-364-2310.