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The Town of Milton has opened adedicated new cricket batting and pitching cage at Optimist Park, expanding access to cricket in Milton and responding to growing community interest in the sport.  

This afternoon, Mayor Gord Krantz, Town staff, and Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) representatives marked the completion of the facility, which was shaped through a unique planning and design process led by Town Parks staff. The planning process included input from local cricket enthusiasts, landscape architecture consultants, and site visits to neighbouring municipalities. 

“This new cricket batting and pitching cage reflects Milton’s commitment to supporting the sports and activities our residents value,” Mayor Gord Krantz said. “OLG’s support continues to help us invest in spaces and facilities that will serve our growing community for many years to come.” 

The new facility includes artificial turf for a safer, more consistent playing surface and a reinforced cage designed to withstand frequent use. The surrounding park was also enhanced with a new bench, a covered picnic table, and landscaping around the cricket cage. 

The Optimist Park cricket batting and pitching cage is available for both drop-in and program use, supporting Milton’s commitment to inclusive sports opportunities. The project was supported with $137,187 from the OLG through the Municipality Contribution Agreement (MCA) as Milton is a casino host community. 

In the 2026 fiscal year, the Town of Milton received $6,346,558 as its share of casino gaming revenue from OLG. Since the opening of the Mohawk gaming site in August 1999, now known as Elements Casino Mohawk, OLG has provided $155.3 million to the Town of Milton. 

“OLG truly values being a long-standing partner in the Town of Milton and to communities across Ontario,” said Kathleen Devine, OLG’s Senior Municipal Relations Manager. “Every dollar of OLG’s profit is returned to Ontario to support the things people care about most, like critical infrastructure, local initiatives, and community events. Those dollars are making a difference here in Milton. The impact wouldn’t be possible without the great team at Elements Casino Mohawk, whose work supports both the local economy and community well-being. When you play at an Ontario casino, you play for Ontario.” 

Annual contributions through the MCA help fund community improvements and programming that benefit Milton residents. OLG funds are also distributed through a grants program that supports non-profit organizations delivering local sports, arts programs, festivals, and other community initiatives.