A new recreation hub that was many years in the making for skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts in North Bay officially opened on Friday as a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the Kiwanis All-Wheel Park at the Downtown Waterfront.
Mayor Peter Chirico, Nipissing MPP Vic Fedeli, and Kiwanis Club of Nipissing President Justin Wigelius joined community members and other stakeholders at the park, located near the City’s Peter Reid Transit Terminal, to celebrate the completion of this much-anticipated project.
"It’s a pleasure to finally open this facility after watching its construction unfold over the past several months," said Chirico. "Skateboarders, BMXers, and scooter enthusiasts have been eager to enjoy this exciting new space, which enhances the vibrancy of our Downtown Waterfront and complements nearby amenities like the Multi-Use Courts, Rotary Splash Pad and Playground, and North Bay Museum."
The All-Wheel Park project received significant support, including an $801,198 contribution from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) and $100,000 from the Kiwanis Club of Nipissing. The park also features accessible shade tables funded by the Ontario government through its Inclusive Community Grants Program.
“We are pleased the Ontario government has made investments to enhance the public outdoor spaces at the City of North Bay's waterfront," said Fedeli. "By working with our municipal partner, together, we continue to foster a strong future for the region by supporting economic growth and recreational infrastructure for the people that live here.”
Designed by New Line Skateparks Inc., the park features a plaza-style concrete skatepark, a pump track, a social/event plaza, and washrooms. It also includes lighting and landscaping.
"We're excited to have played a role in bringing this incredible facility to life," said Kiwanis President Justin Wigelius. "With its accessibility and close proximity to the Transit Terminal and the Downtown Waterfront, everyone will find it easy to visit. We look forward to seeing the All-Wheel Park become a vibrant and active space for years to come."
Community involvement was instrumental in initiating the All-Wheel Park and shaping its design, which began last fall through public consultations, including workshops and online surveys. Feedback from over 300 residents was integrated into the final design. The park’s development was also guided by the
Downtown Waterfront Master Plan and the City’s Parks Master Plan.
The park is now open for use. Hydroseeding in certain areas and activation of washrooms will take place in the spring.
