Swings, slides, climbers, and other play equipment will be replaced this summer with new structures that meet current Canadian Standards Association’s (CSA) standards for children’s playspaces and equipment.
To understand the greater community’s needs and desires for new playground equipment in Riverside Park, the City undertook a three-stage engagement process. During the vision phase—April 13 to May 3, 2015—residents added to a wish list of play components. From July 13 to August 2, 2015 the public voted on a preferred concept design. Between May 9 and June 5, 2016, the public had an opportunity to provide comments on the design.
Update – July 20, 2017
Project status
In progress; play equipment design being finalized.
Construction
Mid-August (anticipated date). Expected completion is Fall 2017.
Impact
During construction, the public will not have access to the play space area.
Project details
Open space planning staff are finalizing the new play structure design. The final design will be based on a comprehensive review of public input received during the community engagement process last spring and summer. This input includes a request that the overall design be more accessible.
Update – August 29, 2016
City staff have reviewed all public comments received from the design phase. The City is currently re-evaluating playground component options to ensure that the final design best represents the various input we have received. A final park design is expected this fall, with construction to start in spring 2017.
Feedback received will assist the City is choosing appropriate play equipment for Riverside Park. When choosing new playground equipment staff will consider equipment that maximizes play value, diversity in play equipment, low-maintenance options, vandalism records, and available budget.
Out of six concepts, the highest ranked designs—chosen by the public—were created by playground manufacturers ABC and Earthscape. The design features a large tree house structure with multiple slides, climbers and spinners; a large wood water strider structure and log climber; a water table; a variety of swings in two areas; large group spinner; distinct junior area with slides, rubber hills and mounds; and a series of new trails.
For more information
Luke Jefferson
Project Manager
Parks and Recreation
519-822-1260 extension 2527
[email protected]