H. Murray Smith Centennial Park restoration aided by Walker donation

The redevelopment of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park was assisted by donation of $100,000 of finances and materials by Walker Industries. It was announced at a community barbecue at the McGregor quarry Aug. 20. From left: Walker general manager of aggregates Maurice Guimont, CAO Valerie Critchley, Councillor Don McArthur, Walker communications lead Cody Cabral, Walker Industries president/CEO Geordie Walker, Mayor Michael Prue, Councillor Peter Courtney, Councillor Molly Allaire and Essex MPP Anthony Leardi.

The revitalization of H. Murray Smith Centennial Park got some assistance thanks to a company with roots in Amherstburg.

Walker Industrial Holdings Ltd. announced a donation of $100,000 to the restoration of the park, with the news being publicly shared at a community barbecue the company held last Thursday afternoon in McGregor. Walker has both the Amherstburg and McGregor quarries under its umbrella, with the company owning 60 sites overall.

Restorations to H. Murray Smith Centennial Park will include new tennis courts, basketball courts, a walking path and benches, with Russell Renaud Hill and the seniors centre at 179 Victoria St. S. to remain.

Maurice Guimont, general manager of aggregates for the Essex and Niagara regions, noted the company employs 54 people locally and the McGregor quarry produces 1.6 million tonnes of aggregate per year, enough to contribute to 90 kilometres of roadwork.

Guimont noted the company has a history of giving back to the communities they operate in, noting they have supplied aggregate to local projects as well as making donations in Amherstburg. He called the Aug. 20 donation “a meaningful way to give back to the Town of Amherstburg and the broader Essex County, reaffirming our commitment to a community that continues to support our operations, and where many of our employees live, work and raise their families.”

Guimont pointed out it is a fifth generation family business.

“Our team here is proud to supply quality aggregates and industry knowledge to help build a stronger Essex, and work alongside local organizations to create rewarding and impactful local careers,” said Guimont.

The concept plans for H. Murray Smith Centennial Park includes new tennis and sports courts, a walking trail, and  benches. Construction on the park upgrades could start as soon as later this year.

Walker Industries president and CEO Geordie Walker noted the company has been around for nearly 140 years and assumed ownership of the local quarries after purchasing them from the Smith family in 2012. He noted operations at the McGregor quarry.

“It was great to go from one family to another and still be community based,” said Walker. 

Walker added the company is honoured to be part of the renewal of an important community asset.

Walker Industries president/CEO Geordie Walker addresses the crowd at last Thursday’s community barbecue in McGregor where it was announced they were contributing $100,000 of materials to H. Murray Smith Centennial Park.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Walker Industries could be part of the H. Murray Smith Centennial Park project,” he added. “Walker takes tremendous pride not only in our operations, but more importantly in the strong relationships we’ve built together in the Town of Amherstburg. As a fifth-generation Canadian family-owned and operated company, it is an honour to support a community with such a rich history and strong sense of pride. We are grateful to be part of Amherstburg’s story and look forward to continuing to grow alongside the community for many years to come.”

Mayor Michael Prue offered both his and the town’s thanks for the donation.

“Thank you to all the people who work at Walker Aggregates,” said Prue. 

Prue said “a lot of people don’t understand the importance of aggregate,” noting there are many things from roads to buildings that need aggregate to be constructed.

“This contribution of both funding and materials will play an important role in bringing these improvements to life and creating new recreational opportunities for residents and visitors,” said Prue.

Prue recalled when he was elected as a town councillor almost eight years ago and joining with others on council to help quash the idea of selling off part of it. 

“Today is a proud moment,” he said, as part of last Thursday’s ceremony.

Pointing out the presence of former owners Alex and Marion Smith, Prue added “I promised you seven years ago I would save that park.” He said it has been saved and is being revitalized with the help of Walker Industries. 

“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts,” Prue told the company. “People of future generations will long remember how wonderful you are.”

Essex MPP Anthony Leardi also extended his gratitude to the company.

“Thank you to Walker for being part of every major project in Ontario,” said Leardi. “I want to thank you for helping us build Ontario.”

The town says construction at H. Murray Smith Centennial Park is expected to begin in the fall of this year “with further information coming in the following weeks.”

H. Murray Smith Centennial Park restoration aided by Walker donation

By Ron Giofu