City Council Approves $55,000 Sponsorship to Support Accessible Recreation Project
CAMBRIDGE, Ont. — The City of Cambridge has approved a $55,000 sponsorship from CUPE Local 1882 for the new scoreboard at the Kin1 Accessible Ball Diamond, providing additional support for a major accessibility upgrade aimed at creating a more inclusive recreational space for residents of all ages and abilities.
City Council approved the sponsorship during its meeting on July 21, allowing the scoreboard to display the name of CUPE Local 1882 once the upgraded facility reopens. The sponsorship forms part of the City’s broader effort to modernize the Kin1 Accessible Ball Diamond and improve access to recreational opportunities for the community.
The redevelopment project includes several accessibility-focused enhancements, such as the installation of artificial turf on the infield, covered dugouts, upgraded spectator seating, and paved pathways designed to improve mobility throughout the facility. The new scoreboard will serve as one of the project’s prominent features when the ball diamond is scheduled to reopen this fall.
City Highlights Importance of Community Partnerships
Mayor Jan Liggett said the sponsorship reflects the value of partnerships that help expand inclusive recreation across Cambridge.
“Score 1 for CUPE Local 1882! Projects like the Kin1 Accessible Ball Diamond help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate, connect and enjoy recreational activities in our community,” said Mayor Jan Liggett. “We are grateful for community partners who share our vision of creating welcoming, inclusive spaces. CUPE Local 1882’s support demonstrates a strong commitment to building a city where residents of all abilities can play, compete and belong.”
City officials said the project aligns with Cambridge’s ongoing commitment to improving public amenities while ensuring recreational facilities are accessible to a wider range of residents.
Accessibility Improvements Continue at Kin1 Ball Diamond
According to the City, the upgrades are intended to remove barriers that can limit participation in community sports and recreation. The improvements are designed to benefit athletes, families, spectators, and visitors by providing safer and more accessible infrastructure throughout the venue.
City Manager Rob Axiak said collaborative initiatives with community organizations help strengthen local facilities while supporting long-term public investment.
“The Kin 1 accessibility upgrades represent an important investment in equitable access to recreation,” said City Manager Rob Axiak. “Partnerships like these allow us to enhance community amenities while strengthening the connections between the City and organizations that care deeply about serving Cambridge residents.”
CUPE Local 1882 Supports Inclusive Community Spaces
CUPE Local 1882 represents the City of Cambridge’s inside workers, including employees in planning and recreation, engineering, administration, and other municipal departments that help deliver day-to-day public services.
Union President Melissa Lafleur said supporting the accessible ball diamond reflects the organization’s commitment to the local community and public spaces that welcome everyone.
“As the City of Cambridge inside workers, our members live, work, and serve this community every day. Supporting this accessible diamond allows us to give back in a meaningful way and reinforces our commitment to public spaces that are safe, inclusive, and accessible to all,” said Melissa Lafleur, President CUPE 1882.
Project Part of Broader Recreation Strategy
The Kin1 Accessible Ball Diamond project is one component of Cambridge’s ongoing strategy to improve recreational infrastructure across the city. Municipal officials have emphasized creating facilities that promote participation regardless of age or physical ability while encouraging greater community engagement through accessible public spaces.
The City said additional information about the accessible ball diamond project, other recreational improvement initiatives, and opportunities for community support is available through its Play It Forward program. The upgraded Kin1 Accessible Ball Diamond is expected to reopen in the fall following completion of the accessibility improvements.