June 15, 2020 – Since 2016, Orangeville Home Hardware has worked closely with the Friends of Island Lake (FOIL) and Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) to offer designated parking at their 4th Avenue location. These parking spaces provided visitors with access to Island Lake Conservation Area’s 4th Avenue entrance and supported the park’s active transportation program.
As more services resume under of the province’s stage two reopening plan, demand for these designated parking spaces has become overwhelming. Steady increases to park visitation, magnified by COVID-19, have resulted in the need to close the Home Hardware parking to Island Lake visitors.
“We ask that local residents please adhere to Home Hardware’s parking lot closure”, said Bob Shirley, Chair of FOIL. “Orangeville Home Hardware has supported us for so long, this is the least the community can do to for them in return.”
Home Hardware has been a longstanding supporter of FOIL initiatives at Island Lake including the annual Bass Derby, Family Day and Trail Donation Day. The in-kind donation of 12 designated parking spaces provided the community with greater access to the park.
“Home Hardware’s strong support is a testament to their commitment to the local community and environment,” said Terri LeRoux, Senior Manager, Property, Asset, Recreation and Conservation Area Services for CVC. “We’re grateful to have them as a partner and neighbour.”
FOIL was established in 2005 as a fundraising committee of Credit Valley Conservation Foundation. Since that time, they raised more than $2.6 million in donations (cash and in-kind labour and materials) for enhancements at Island Lake, including 10 kilometres of fully accessible trail. The group contributes more than 10,000 volunteer hours each year in support of the park.
Credit Valley Conservation (CVC) is a local conservation authority established by the Ontario government in 1954 to protect, restore and enhance the natural environment of the Credit River Watershed. Our watershed is defined by the area of land where all rainfall, snowmelt and runoff drain into lands and waters flowing into the Credit River. CVC creates connections between people and nature, knowledge and action. We inspire a deep appreciation for the role of nature in keeping people connected, healthy and happy. CVC is a member of Conservation Ontario.
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Media Contact
Sophia Maio
Acting Supervisor, Marketing and Communications
Credit Valley Conservation
M 437-240-4801
[email protected]