By Mark Squibb
Mount Pearl’s new community centre won’t be completed for another year or so, but in the meantime, folks can avail of the centre’s parking lot.
The City opened the parking lot to the public on July 7 to accommodate heavy summer traffic at the Team Gushue Sports Complex, which is expected to peak once the 2025 Canada Summer Games is underway – as Mount Pearl will be hosting baseball at the Team Gushue Smallwood Field.
“The parking lot is mostly complete in preparation for the Canada Games,” said Deputy Mayor Nicole Kieley. “We know that (adequate parking) will be such an important factor in ensuring that we are a great host.”
Work on both the splash pad and the building is ongoing.
Council approved construction of the $15.5 million community centre last June. The new facility, which will boast a splash pad that can be repurposed as a skating rink during the winter months and indoor community space capable of seating 500, will replace the ageing park Place Community Centre.
The City has made several upgrades to the Smallwood Field to bring it up to snuff, including construction of a new clay infield, enhanced team dugouts, new pitchers’ bullpens, a new batting cage, enhanced clubhouse, new scoreboard, and enhanced spectator seating.
Aside from baseball, Mount Pearl will host wrestling at the Glacier Arena.