The City of Orillia has begun construction on a new skate park and 10 pickleball courts at Foundry Park [1], [2].
These additions address long-standing community requests for expanded recreational facilities and provide dedicated spaces for high-demand sports in Ontario [2].
The project includes the development of an 11,000-square-foot skate park [1], [2]. This facility is designed to offer a safe, permanent space for skaters and boarders who previously lacked a centralized municipal venue.
Alongside the skate park, the city is installing 10 new pickleball courts [1], [2]. The expansion reflects the rapid growth of the sport and the need for more public infrastructure to accommodate local players.
Construction on the facilities began in May 2024 [2]. The development is the result of collaboration between the municipal government and community advocates who pushed for the amenities.
"It’s crazy that this is actually happening," a long-time advocate for the skate park said [2].
The project aims to transform Foundry Park into a more versatile recreational hub for residents of all ages. By integrating both traditional skating and the growing popularity of pickleball, the city seeks to diversify its public leisure offerings.
“The project includes the development of an 11,000-square-foot skate park.”
The investment in Foundry Park signals a shift in municipal planning toward diversifying recreational infrastructure to meet modern trends. By prioritizing both a skate park and pickleball courts, Orillia is addressing a gap in youth and adult active-living options, potentially reducing the reliance on makeshift or private facilities.
