I love how much residents care about their local parks and recreation spaces. They are where we gather, play, stay active, and connect with one another.

But our parks are under growing pressure. Too many are waiting years for infrastructure upgrades based on lifecycle timelines, while parks maintenance across the ward and programming at Pinecrest Recreational Complex are stretched by operational budgets that haven’t kept pace with a growing city.

We need to do more to invest in the parks and recreation spaces our communities rely on today, and plan ahead for the neighbourhoods of tomorrow.

Solutions

Use population projections for the outer urban area so we can more accurately anticipate where and when new and improved parks, recreation spaces, and amenities will be needed.
Immediately rebuild Entrance Pool. The dive tank was non-operational this year due to the extent of damage it experienced over the winter..
Advocate for the increase in Parks and Recreation operational budgets to fund extended seasons for our outdoor pools in College Ward.
Update the existing splash pad at Westcliffe Park.
Our parks should be considered when we are looking at increasing flood resiliency in College Ward. We need more collaboration between Infrastructure and Water Services and Parks and Recreation in reviewing stormwater drainage systems in our local parks.
Work to expand and increase accessible, affordable youth programming at Pinecrest Recreation Complex during after-school hours, giving local youth more opportunities to participate, connect, and stay active close to home.
Work with the Parks and Recreation team to collect information on the lifecycle timelines for all tennis and pickleball courts in College Ward, ensuring that our courts meet the maintenance standards and conditions necessary to be played on safely.