The new Jumpstart Inclusive Multi-Sport Court in Cambridge has been in the works for about three years, with conceptual designs rolled out in September 2023.
Just days after its opening at the beginning of June, the city had to close down the accessible court in the Ellis Road and Cooper Street area due to vandalism.
“We’re disappointed to share that the new Jumpstart Inclusive Multi-Sport Court in Hespeler Optimist Park was recently vandalized and is currently closed while WRPS investigate,” reads a post by the municipality.
Waterloo regional police tell 570 NewsRadio the call came in around 4 p.m. on June 10.
“The graffiti included hate-motivated writing,” said police. “At this time, investigators believe the graffiti is not targeted and appears to be an isolated, random act.”
The investigation is ongoing.
The court for now, nearly a week after the graffiti was reported, remains closed.
“A timeline for reopening has not yet been established; however, once the investigation by WRPS is complete and necessary repairs are done, the court will reopen,” said Manager of Communications with the City of Cambridge, Teresa Chiavaroli.
“We will provide an update via our social media channels and website once timing is known.”
The accessible court is designed for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy basketball, tennis, pickleball, volleyball and more.
It was funded in part by a $500,000 grant from the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program.
