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Plan to Rejuvenate Olympic Track Endorsed

St. Catharines city council gave the nod for Niagara Olympic Track and Field Centre, phase one to cost $1.4-million

A funding request to rejuvenate Niagara Olympic Track and Field Centre has been approved, in principle, by St. Catharines city council.

Phase one will cost $1.4-million, with hopes the province covers 50%, the city handles 30%, and the club fundraises the rest.

Club chair Sharon Stewart is aiming for OFFSA in 2026.  "OFFSA is a 3-day track meet, with 2,900 athletes, from 850 schools from across Ontario. 1,000 coaches, 100 plus volunteers, and probably 1,000 or more spectators a day."

Mayor Mat Siscoe says city infrastructure must be maintained.

Deputy Mayor Bill Phillips has memories.  "Having been a gym teacher and principal at nearby Power Glen School, we used that track a lot, we're probably responsible for wearing the surface off it.  But it's not a situation where they can hold a track and field meet like OFFSA."

City staff will report back with details of the proposal.

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