David Arntfield Recreation Area Officially Opens at Centennial Park

It was a project that Mike O’Neill of the Manotick Culture, Parks and Recreation Association called “a collective effort” as the community celebrated the opening of the David Arntfield Recreation Area with a celebration July 4.

Located in the northeast corner of Centennial Park in Manotick, the David Arntfield Recreation Area is the gateway into this park.  Once complete, the new park will become a significant gathering place for the community.

The creation of the David Arntfield Recreation Area was made possible with support from community contributors, including R.W. Tomlinson Limited, and from the City of Ottawa, the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario through the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP).

Construction of the David Arntfield Recreation Area began in 2020 and was divided into two phases. The first phase included a seasonal outdoor rink with lighting, basketball courts, and tree planting. The second phase included the new skateboard park and pump track, which is now ready to welcome riders.

In 2020, the northeast corner of Centennial Park was commemoratively named in memory of David Arntfield, a dedicated community volunteer and talented fundraiser supporting both local and regional initiatives. With the opening of this recreation area, local residents and visitors can share in David’s lifelong passion for sports and recreation.

“A heartfelt thank you to the Manotick Culture, Parks and Recreation Association, our Provincial and Federal partners, and all the dedicated contributors within our community who made this vision a reality,” said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. “This incredible new space stands as a tribute to your efforts and honours the memory of David Arntfield, a remarkable member for the community and an avid sports fan.”

Anne Robinson of the MCPRA thanked the “get your hands dirty” people who played a role in creating the recreation area.

Among those she thanked were Fotenn Planning and Design, New Line Skateparks, the Tomlinson Group, D & G Landscaping, McKee Electrical, MCPRA Outdoor Rink Volunteers, Artistic Landscape Design and Prestige Design & Construction.

She also thanked the team of garden stewards, which included students from Manotick Public School and St. Leonard, YOMA, and the Arntfield family and friends.

Robinson also thanked a number of contributors to the project. They included the Tomlinson Foundation, the Kiwanis Club of Manotick, the MCPRA, Olga and Bob Simpson, and the Manotick Village Community Association.

“And special thanks to the many additional individuals and organizations that also donated to the project in the memory of David Arntfield,” she said.

Featured Image: Mike O’Neill and Anne Robinson unveil the David Arntfield Recreation Area. (Greg Newton photos)