It’s only been a year since Paddock Chevrolet Park welcomed its first visitors in Tonawanda. But the numbers already prove it’s a hit in this Western New York community:
Paddock Park, the massive recreational and sports complex operated by the Tonawanda Youth, Parks and Recreation Department, has something for everyone. Perfect for cooling off in the summer heat, Paddock Park boasts the country’s largest spray park, dousing daring types with its 55-gallon dumping bucket and 40 spray elements. The ice arena hosts public skates, skate-and-shoot sessions and local hockey programs. The wildly popular Golf Dome has 48 tee stations, a 3,500-square-foot putting and chipping green, practice bunker and the Brighton Bay Miniature Golf Course. Then there’s the outdoor driving range, nine batting cages, pickleball and volleyball courts, plus a multi-grass pitch used for both soccer and rugby. And the regulation-size athletic field is a major draw for local youth sports, adult amateur leagues and regional athletic tournaments.
Located directly off Interstate 290 (Exit 2), the park sits just north of the interstate corridor, making it easily accessible for visitors heading from Niagara Falls or the Buffalo metro area.
“We are a complete destination. And I mean everything in the park’s footprint is a destination unto itself,” said Mark Campanella Sr., superintendent, Parks and Recreation. “Whether coming in or leaving town from either way, you can see Paddock Park from the interstate. It’s quite a picture.”
Campanella said the park, which is a draw for Tonawanda’s youth leagues and sports clubs, now has an added benefit as a result of the recent partnership announced between Paddock Chevrolet, Hudl and Lee Enterprises’ Buffalo News. The deal will expand access to sports throughout Western New York, connecting athletes, families and communities through enhanced video, highlights, schedules, livestreams and local storytelling — powered by Hudl’s technology and AI-powered insights, delivered free through the Buffalo News and other Lee Enterprises’ platforms.
“My grandson plays football and I don’t like to miss a practice, let alone a game, so this will really up the game for us fans in terms of delivering coverage for everyone in the community,” Campanella said. “It’s great because the support of high school sports is very strong around here, and the impact Paddock Park has in this community will help further that enthusiasm and support and bring more people to our destination here.”
For Campanella, Paddock Park is a thrill that must be seen to be believed.
“Come on down,” he said. “Experience it firsthand.”
For more information, please visit tonawanda.gov/youth-parks-recreation.
