by Laura Dudas
I am pleased to share an update that will make a real difference for residents, families and community groups across Blackburn Hamlet. Full Wi-Fi access is now available at both the Lois Kemp Arena and the Blackburn Hall, two of our most heavily used and deeply valued neighbourhood facilities.
This long-needed upgrade brings these community hubs fully into the modern age. Anyone who has attended a hockey game, early-morning practice, community meeting or special event at either location knows just how valuable reliable internet access can be. From parents coordinating pickups or volunteers using digital scorekeeping tools, to community groups running meetings and programs, we often take for granted how much Wi-Fi helps make everyday activities smoother, more efficient and more accessible. It also means residents can get a bit of work done while waiting for that 6 am practice to wrap up, or host community meetings and events in the Hall with greater ease and flexibility.
I worked hard to ensure that the Lois Kemp Arena and the Blackburn Hall were placed on the City’s priority list for these upgrades because I know how central they are to community life. Beyond convenience, this improvement enhances the level and flexibility of services City facilities can offer. With dependable online access, staff can now explore simpler and more efficient options like non-cash payments for drop-in activities and stronger support for event operations, which I have already asked staff to begin working on.
These may seem like small changes, but together they significantly improve the experience for residents and for those who operate and rely on these facilities every day. This is a clear win for both the community and the City.
My hope is that this enhanced connectivity will help expand the range of programs, partnerships and activities offered at both locations. These spaces are where neighbours connect, volunteer and celebrate together. With full Wi-Fi access now in place, they are better equipped to meet the evolving needs of our growing and connected community. Continued investments like this help ensure our neighbourhood facilities remain welcoming, responsive and ready to serve residents today and well into the future.