Officials in Watford are celebrating the completion of the East Lambton Community Complex fundraising campaign.
The ambitious initiative brought in just over $2.1 million dollars over the last year.
Co-Chairs Rhonda and George Noll helped unveil a new donor wall and naming rights during a recent ceremony.
The Nolls thanked everyone in the community and beyond who contributed to the campaign.
“It’s a bittersweet day for George and I and I’m sure for the whole committee," said Rhonda. "Today officially wraps up our fundraising efforts and we are thrilled to show you the new donor wall feature and announce that we surpassed our $2 million fundraising goal."
The new facility features a new YMCA fitness centre, gymnasium, banquet hall, and meeting room, along with upgrades to the existing arena.
Warwick Township Mayor Todd Case commended the committee and donors for helping make the project a reality.
“It is incredible what people in a small town like ours can accomplish," said Case. "This committee did a fantastic job in their fundraising efforts. It is great to see the facility fully operational and used by so many people."
In 2020, Warwick Township Council approved the renewal of the Watford Community Arena and a new multi-purpose facility to replace Centennial Hall.
Construction began in the spring of 2021 and was substantially completed by October 2022.
The total estimated project cost was around $10.7 million.
The facility is located at 61 Centennial Avenue.
