The City of Welland is planning a new community facility on Merritt Island in partnership with the Regional Municipality of Niagara.
The new facility is intended to provide accessible, flexible space for recreation programs, community events, meetings, and cultural activities. The project will also improve public access to Merritt Island and support the long-term use of the surrounding parkland.
The facility is being funded through an agreement related to the Region’s planned expansion of the Merritt Island Water Treatment Plant.
The City is working to create a welcoming, energy-efficient space that supports community needs now and into the future.
Project goals
The project aims to:
- Provide inclusive and accessible community space
- Support recreation, wellness, and cultural activities
- Improve public access to Merritt Island
- Develop a durable and energy-efficient facility
- Create flexible space that can adapt to future community needs
Proposed facility features
The facility may include:
- Multi-purpose indoor community spaces
- Flexible program and meeting rooms
- Washrooms, storage, and administrative space
- Accessibility and site improvements
- Connections to surrounding parkland and outdoor space
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Why is a new facility being developed?
The Merritt Island Community Facility project is connected to the Regional Municipality of Niagara’s planned expansion of the Merritt Island Water Treatment Plant.
To support this expansion, the City of Welland transferred ownership of the existing community facility lands on Merritt Island to the Region through a land transfer and infrastructure agreement.
As part of the agreement, the Region provided funding toward the development of a new community facility.
This partnership supports important regional water infrastructure while helping maintain community services and amenities in Welland.
Partnership with Niagara Region
The project reflects a partnership between the City of Welland and the Regional Municipality of Niagara.
The agreement supports:
- Regional infrastructure improvements
- Long-term community investment
- Continued public access to recreation and community space
- Coordination between municipal and regional priorities
Project vision
The City of Welland is working to create a modern, accessible, and welcoming community hub for residents of all ages and abilities.
The project aligns with the City’s goals related to:
- Community well-being
- Inclusive public spaces
- Recreation and cultural opportunities
- Sustainable infrastructure development
The facility is intended to support changing community needs over the long term.
Where are we on the public participation spectrum?
