Ontario Construction News staff writer<\/p>\n
The City of St. Catharines announced a joint donation of $20,000 from Effort Trust and the Cullen family, towards construction of the community\u2019s first public labyrinth.<\/p>\n
Sponsors and project partners including members of the Kiwanis Club of St. Catharines and The Valhalla Project Niagara to celebrate the milestone at Fairview Park recently.<\/p>\n
\u201cThese community partnerships support our efforts to create more inclusive, welcoming spaces, while building a healthier City,\u201d said Mayor Walter Sendzik. \u201cThe health and wellbeing of our community is a priority, and the generosity of Effort Trust and the Cullen family, along with Valhalla Project and the Kiwanis Club of St. Catharines, will ultimately help many people in our community for years to come as they use this space for self-healing and reflection.\u201d<\/p>\n
With design and construction completed, the labyrinth will soon see the addition of a hard surface connection from a recently completed accessible trail, educational signage and benches.<\/p>\n
Installation was completed with support of the The Valhalla Project and the Kiwanis Club of St. Catharines, which provided a $7,500 donation to the project earlier this year.<\/p>\n
The labyrinth is part of the overall plans to enhance Fairview Park through the Fairview Park Community Vision. As part of the community vision, public consultation will provide guidance for future park investment and development as well as consider the preservation and protection of environmental and archaeological resources.<\/p>\n
A labyrinth is a walking path designed for meditation, mindfulness, and personal reflection. A labyrinth can also play a role in treating mental health conditions and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).<\/p>\n
\u201cThis is an important asset our community can benefit from,\u201d said Phil Cristi, director of Community Recreation and Culture Services for the City. \u201cThrough our collaborative efforts, we are pleased to provide a space to facilitate building connections and mindfulness.\u201d<\/p>\n