The Grand Trunk site represents one of Stratford’s most significant opportunities for community renewal. Progress has taken longer than many people hoped, including me, but Council has now established a clearer and more achievable direction for moving the project forward.
I support the current plan to advance the site in phases, beginning with a shared community facility involving the YMCA of Three Rivers and the Stratford Public Library, together with other potential community partners.
Council has approved a municipal capital contribution of up to $15 million toward the shared facility. Moving forward will require disciplined financial planning, meaningful partner contributions and support from other levels of government.
The development must be ambitious enough to serve Stratford for generations while remaining realistic about what municipal taxpayers can responsibly support.
My Priorities
- Maintain momentum through clear timelines, milestones and decision points
- Advance a shared community facility anchored by the YMCA and Stratford Public Library
- Respect the City’s approved municipal contribution of up to $15 million
- Secure meaningful financial participation from project partners and other levels of government
- Develop the site in practical and financially responsible phases
- Provide regular public updates on costs, progress and major decisions
- Support complementary future uses that contribute to a vibrant and connected site
- Respect the railway history of the property while creating an accessible and welcoming place for the entire community