Coniston Celebrates Grand Opening of Adélie Splash Pad and Greenhouse in Centennial Park

Residents of Coniston had an extra reason to celebrate Canada Day with the grand opening of the Adélie Splash Pad and Community Gardens Greenhouse in Centennial Park.

“The Adélie Splash Pad and Coniston Community Gardens Greenhouse would not have been possible without the generosity of Lopes Ltd.,” said Greater Sudbury Mayor Brian Bigger. “On behalf of all residents, I extend sincere thanks to Lopes for these lasting enhancements to Coniston and for their ongoing contributions to our community.”

Lopes Limited, in Coniston, donated a total of $340,000 toward these two projects. The City of Greater Sudbury contributed $50,000 through its Healthy Community Initiative Fund.

“This is what community looks like: business, residents and government pulling together to make good things happen,” said Ward 9 Councillor Deb McIntosh. “The Lopes team has been a strong leader on these projects and with the help and cooperation of volunteers and city staff we are reaping the collaborative benefits today.”

“Coniston Community Action Network has had a great year and what a great way to begin the summer with the opening of the splash pad and greenhouse,” added Stephen Gauvreau, Chair of the Coniston CAN. “We are so fortunate to have such a great supporter and donor as Lopes Limited.”

Lopes Limited worked with Coniston Community Gardens, a subcommittee of the Coniston Community Action Network, to construct the new greenhouse in Coniston Centennial Park.

“This season brings a new experience of greenhouse growing, thanks to Lopes Limited,” said Linda Hachez of the Coniston Community Gardens. “In partnership with Project Impact and Larry’s Valu-Mart, we can now deliver a box of fresh produce to each of our three local seniors’ residences every week.”

The new Adélie Splash Pad is named after the daughters of Felix Lopes Jr. who worked with the Coniston Playground Association to develop the project. The Lopes team has worked though the last two weekends, including Father’s Day to ensure the splash pad would be ready for July 1.

“A new splash pad has been the number one priority for our community for a long time,” said Coniston Playground Association President Ryan Purdy. “We are extremely fortunate that Lopes Limited has provided funding and countless hours of labour for everyone to enjoy on Canada Day.”

Lopes Limited was founded in 1976 by Felix Lopes Sr. on the principles of quality workmanship and ethical business practices. Today, the company is led by Felix Lopes Jr. who carries on his father’s legacy of social responsibility.

Lopes Limited provided the following statement:  “The company is proud to give back to the community and donate the splash pad and greenhouse to promote a new dynamic outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by its residents and children of all ages. The Lopes team has worked continuously the past three weeks to complete the splash pad so that it can be revealed on Canada Day.

“ Lopes Limited would like to express their gratitude to all the suppliers and sub-contractors that helped us accomplish this project and reach its milestones. It was through this combined effort that Lopes Limited was able to deliver this beautiful amenity to the community of Coniston.”

Adélie Splash Pad was open for Canada Day but will be closed for approximately two weeks to allow new sod to take hold. Hours of operation will be available at www.greatersudbury.ca/splashpads

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