City of Peterborough Seeking Public Input For Bonnerworth Park Redevelopment

The City of Peterborough is hosting a public consultation for the redevelopment of Bonnerworth Park on how to invest in the community park to enhance the space and add new recreation features.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Improvements are expected to start in the fall. Bonnerworth Park, located at 560 McDonnel St. in Town Ward 3, will become a new recreation hub according to the City.

“We are thrilled to see Bonnerworth being redeveloped into a community hub. Community parks contribute to healthy, thriving cities. Please help us ensure that the upcoming redevelopment of Bonnerworth Park will meet your needs today and into the future,” said Councillor Joy Lachica. “Whether you are a family with young children or a senior who would enjoy spending time there, we want to hear from you.”

“I live close by and have enjoyed the park in so many different ways throughout my life — the redevelopment offers so much potential,” said Councillor Alex Bierk. “I'm thankful for the community's support for the project so far. In the upcoming planning stages, we have the opportunity to reimagine the park to meet our collective needs and vision.”

A public drop-in session will take place on March 21 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Community Centre at 577 McDonnel St. City staff will be available to answer questions and receive input about which amenities residents would like to see in the park.

Everyone is invited to complete the online survey. The survey will allow participants to identify features they would like to see in the park and make suggestions to create an inclusive environment. Paper copies of the survey will be available in the lobby at City Hall, 500 George St. N.

Bonnerworth Park was identified as a priority project in the City’s Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study which identified key objectives to improve and expand opportunities to support recreation across the City according to a press release. Pickleball was identified as a priority sport to meet the demand for facilities for one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.  

The Bonnerworth Park redevelopment will include 16 new pickleball courts, a bike pump track, an expanded skatepark and associated landscape and lighting.

The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on March 2. Once the survey has closed, an update summarizing the findings will be posted online.

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City of Peterborough Seeking Public Input For Rejuvenation of Dominion and Denne Park

The City of Peterborough is asking residents to share their ideas on features for Dominion and Denne Parks with construction intended to start in spring or summer next year.

Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.

The plan to rejuvenate Denne Park, located at 210 Denne Cres. in Ashburnham Ward 4, and Dominion Park, located at 342 Dominion Cres. in Northcrest Ward 5, will identify new amenities based on the needs and desires of each of the neighbourhoods and the people who use the parks.

Residents can take part in the online survey and public drop-in session to help identify priorities for the rejuvenation of the park.

“Parks support the health and wellbeing of neighbourhoods by encouraging recreation, physical activity and socialization. Updated park amenities improve accessibility and connection with our green outdoor spaces,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “We need your help to ensure the upcoming enhancements meet the needs of each of these communities. Whether you are a family with young children or a senior who would enjoy spending time there, we want to hear from you.”

Dominion Park Consultation

Information on the Dominion Park rejuvenation and consultation opportunities are available on the City’s public engagement website Connect Peterborough at connectptbo.ca/Dominion-Park or by phone at 705-742-7777 ext.1829.

Public Information Meeting

A Public Drop-in Session will take place on Thursday, September 21, 2023 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Community Centre at 577 McDonnel St.

City staff will be available to answer questions and receive input about which amenities residents would like to see in the park.

Dominion Park Rejuvenation Survey

All individuals and families that use the park or live nearby are invited to complete an online survey through the City’s community consultation website at connectptbo.ca/Dominion-Park. The survey will allow participants to identify features they would like to see in the park and make suggestions to create an inclusive play environment. Paper copies of the survey will be available in the lobby at City Hall, 500 George St. N.

The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 5. Once the survey has closed, an update summarizing the survey findings will be posted. Future information about the project and a concept plan will be updated on the Connect Peterborough project page as they come available.

Denne Park Consultation

Information on the Denne Park rejuvenation and consultation opportunities are available on the City’s public engagement website Connect Peterborough at connectptbo.ca/Denne-Park or by phone at 705-742-7777 ext.1829.

Public Information Meeting

A Public Drop-in Session will take place on Sept. 27 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Peterborough Naval Club at 24 Whitla St.

City staff will be available to answer questions and receive input about which amenities residents would like to see in the park.

Denne Park Rejuvenation Survey

All individuals and families that use the park or live nearby are invited to complete an online survey through the City’s community consultation website at connectptbo.ca/Denne-Park. The survey will allow participants to identify features they would like to see in the park and make suggestions to create an inclusive play environment. Paper copies of the survey will be available in the lobby at City Hall, 500 George St. N.

The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 11. Once the survey has closed, an update summarizing the survey findings will be posted. Future information about the project and a concept plan will be updated on the Connect Peterborough project page as they come available.

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City Splash Pads Extend Operations Until Sept. 11

With the City of Peterborough expecting temperatures expected to climb into the 30s next week, splash pads remain open until Sept. 11, announced on Friday morning.

File Photo.

Splash pads were originally scheduled to close for the season on Tuesday.

“Local families will be looking for ways to cool off during this mini heat wave and we are thrilled to be able to offer our splash pad facilities for an extended season,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell.

There are seven splash pads in City parks, open daily from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the following locations:

• King Edward Park at 455 George St. S.

• Nicholls Oval at 725 Armour Rd.

• Rogers Cove at 131 Maria St.

• Kinsmen Park at 1 Kinsmen Way

• Barnardo Park on Barnardo Avenue north of Sunset Boulevard

• Turner Park at the corner of Chamberlain and High streets

• Hamilton Park at 575 Bonaccord St.

Splash pads are typically closed before fall when temperatures tend to drop at night according to the City. The water systems including the pipes, need to be prepared to avoid freezing and damage through the cold weather between fall and spring.

Beaches at Beavermead Park and Rogers Cove are no longer supervised at this time since the City’s summer lifeguard program ended on Sunday.

Peterborough Public Health’s seasonal water testing at beaches is scheduled to end on Friday. Residents are reminded to use extra caution around the water if visiting the beaches.

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Heritage Park Officially Opens to the Public In Peterborough's North End

The City of Peterborough and its families rejoiced as they celebrated the official opening of Heritage Park on Thursday at 560 Settlers Ridge on Thursday afternoon.

One-year-old Cooper Adams (left) is enjoying the swings with his father James (right) the opening day of Heritage Park at 560 Settlers Ridge. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The park is located at 560 Settlers Ridge and includes a playground with swings, a basketball half-court, seating areas, a walking trail and asphalt walkways. 

“Neighbourhood parks contribute to healthy, thriving neighbourhoods. The opening of this park will help meet the recreational and wellbeing needs of the people in the community,” said Councillor Dave Haacke.

The project was supported through the City’s Parkland Development Assistance Program, Tollington Fund and Accessibility Fund according to the City of Peterborough.

“The new playground equipment, basketball half court and accessible features throughout the park will ensure that families will continue to enjoy the park for years to come,” said Councillor Andrew Beamer."

“Park by park, we are working to improve outdoor spaces for Peterborough residents of all ages,” said Councillor Lesley Parnell. “Having good park amenities enhances the quality of life for everyone from babies in strollers, to school-aged kids, right through to seniors.”

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Trent Valley Archives Offering New Walking Tour Through Jackson Park

Trent Valley Archives (TVA) is offering a new hour and a half walking tour through Peterborough’s Jackson Park on Thursday, June 15.

photo courtesy of trent valley archives.

Jackson Park began as an industrial site before it became a public park in the 1890’s. Later the site of an amusement park and a spot to show outdoor films, the park then became a camp for children with alternative needs in the 1960’s when the City took over the park.

Led by noted historian Karen Carter-Edwards, the tour will explore the fascinating history of this wonderful Peterborough landmark. Participants can discover where the gamblers den, Devil’s gap and famous beach were located.

The tour meets in the upper parking lot through the main gates off Monaghan Road and will commence at 2 p.m.. It will run rain or shine, so TVA asks that participants dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.

The cost is $20 per person and registration/payment in advance is required. Tickets are available on the website by reserving with Heather at 705-745-4404, or by email.

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GreenUP’s Ecology Park Nursery Opening Event Sparks the Summer Season of Growing

The GreenUP Ecology Park Native Plant & Tree Nursery hosted its Annual Spring Opening Event on May 20; marking the start of the gardening season for hundreds of local gardeners.

photo courtesy of greenup, facebook.

The Ecology Park Native Plant & Tree Nursery is open every year from the Victoria Day long weekend until the Friday before Thanksgiving.

Ecology Park Nursery is known as one of the best local sources for native plants, with over 200 types of edible and native varieties of plants, shrubs, and trees. This year, GreenUP and Ecology Park featured a self-serve bulk compost and mulch station, as well as being host to the first naturalized playscape in Peterborough for the young and young-at-heart to play on while surrounded by plants for sale.

“The Ecology Park Native Plant & Tree Nursery offers climate-resilient plants that are grown slowly and intentionally for the growing season in Peterborough,” said Vern Bastable, director of Ecology Park and GreenUP’s Landscaping Programs.

The Ecology Park Native Plant & Tree Nursery is located at 1899 Ashburnham Drive, with parking available at the Beavermead parking lot via Marsdale Drive. The Ecology Park Nursery will be open Thursdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 10 a.m. 4 p.m. until closing on Thanksgiving weekend. Interested patrons can visit the website and explore native plants that the nursery may carry online before arriving at the park, where the summer staff will assist in finding the desired plants.

“Investing in native species can reap benefits for decades, creating a legacy of a vibrant, healthy community,” continues Bastable. “Native species have developed complex evolutionary relationships with other native species. They belong here, are a familiar part of the landscape, and they support our health and the health of the ecosystem at large.”

The Ecology Park Nursery is operated by GreenUP, this region’s leading environmental non-profit charity. All proceeds from sales support GreenUP’s environmental programs in communities across the Peterborough region.

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Ashburnham Memorial Stewardship Group Seeking Volunteers To Help Clean Up Armour Hill

The Ashburnham Memorial Stewardship Group is looking for volunteers to help clean up a winter of garbage buildup at Ashburnham Memorial Park (Armour Hill) on April 15.

photo courtesy of the Ashburnham Memorial Stewardship Group.

“Your efforts at the last clean-ups have made a big difference to the health, safety and beauty of the park and we really cherish your kindness in doing so,” said the Ashburnham Memorial Stewardship Group in a press release. “Your contribution to these events is very helpful in moving towards positive changes for Ashburnham Memorial Park, and these efforts demonstrate that the community cares about this Heritage Park.”

At 10 a.m. on Saturday, participants will meet at Rube Brady Park at the basketball court at the bottom of the toboggan hill (corner of Armour Road and Munroe Ave) rain or shine.

The group advises participants to dress for the weather, and to expect mud throughout the park (rain boots are strongly recommended.) Bring a reusable coffee mug, water bottle, work gloves (optional) and garbage grabbers (optional). and appropriate attire for the weather. Supplies are provided.

For more information visit the website.

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GreenUP Naturalized Playscape Welcomes the Public To Ecology Park

GreenUP welcomes the community to visit Peterborough’s first natural playscape on public lands; celebrating with a ribbon cutting event on Friday afternoon.

A naturalized playscape is one way to introduce children and those willing to unleash their playfulness to natural play in an urban landscape. Photo by Lili Paradi.

GreenUP donors and supporters alongside Executive Director Tegan Moss play around to celebrate the opening at GreenUP Ecology Park. (Left to right: Ian Attridge, Mark Zippel, Tegan Moss, Kim Zippel, Sue Sauve.) Photo by Lili Paradi.

The Keresztesi family plays on the new naturalized playscape at Ecology Park. Photo by Lili Paradi.

Tegan Moss, executive director at GreenUP, cuts the ribbon to signify the opening of the Peterborough's first naturalized playscape on public grounds at Ecology Park, to the excitement of the many children who then ran onto use the playscape. Photo by Lili Paradi.

Thanks to a $52,800 grant from the Government of Ontario and the Ontario Trillium Foundation in 2021, as well as the support of GreenUP donors, the organization was able to fund the playscape.

The climbing structures added in 2022 were designed by Henry Kortekaas & Associates Inc. and constructed by The Little Building Company.

“I hope that when children play on this natural playscape, they feel a stronger connection to their natural surroundings, and are given the opportunity to learn and engage in unstructured, imaginative play,” said Sean Harris, owner of The Little Building Company. “They can test their limits with the unconventional climbing structure, or interact with the playground perimeter, which features rocks and logs for jumping and balancing. The soft texture and irregularities of the locally sourced white cedar offer a refreshing change from the familiar plastic and metal surfaces. When I look at the playscape, I see not only a fun space for children to play and learn, but also an environmentally responsible play area with low embodied carbon cost and no landfill waste at the end of its lifetime.”

The Naturalized Playscape is the fourth of five capital projects that GreenUP plans to complete in Ecology Park.

GreenUp says they are proud of how this project has re-imagined and restored the Ecology Park Children’s Garden.

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Repairs to Kirkfield Lift Lock To Begin; Temporary Lane Closures on Kirkfield Road

Parks Canada advises that there will be intermittent single-lane closures on Kirkfield Road, at Lock 36 near the community of Kirkfield in the City of Kawartha Lakes between Feb. 21 and Feb. 24.

Photo courtesy of Parks Canada.

The single-lane closure is required to facilitate the placement of a crane as work continues on repairs to the Kirkfield Lift Lock.

Flaggers will be in place, and the public can expect short delays.

Parks Canada thanks nearby area residents and visitors for their patience during this closure.

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Quaker Foods City Square Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony Cancelled Due To Impending Protest; Activities To Proceed

The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Quaker Foods City Square this Saturday has been put on hold due to an impending protest however, family activities will proceed as normal announced on Wednesday.

THE PARK WAS OPEN TEMPORARILY ON CANADA DAY FOR A RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY OF A NEW UN PEACEKEEPERS MONUMENT. PHOTO BY DAVID TUAN BUI. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The protest arranged by Michelle McQuaid is known as the ‘Concrete Priorities Protest’ to protest the City’s celebration and spending on the park , especially the heated concrete while Peterborough is undergoing a homelessness crisis.

The $6.4-million project was supported by a non-repayable contribution of $750,000 from the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) as part of the Canada Community Revitalization Fund, to support the construction of the rink, as well as landscaping and water features.

The City also used $677,909 from the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation from its share of gaming revenues provided as a host community for a casino, and $50,000 from the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area to support the project. PepsiCo Foods, through its Quaker brand, is providing approximately $240,000 over 15 years for the naming rights to the public square.

Former Mayor Diane Therrien declared a state of emergency on homelessness in Peterborough after calling a special city council meeting on Oct. 13. This occurred a few weeks prior to the municipal election when Therrien said she would not run for another mayoral term.

McQuaid stated the following on the social media event on the City’s alleged inaction on the homelessness issue:

“I know tents are not ideal, but they would be alot more comfortable on HEATED PAVEMENT! We have community members sleeping outside, in cars, tents... Whatever shelter they can make... ...and The City of Peterborough decides to celebrate? I'd like to know exactly what they are celebrating and acknowledge what they are choosing to ignore.”

The protest is still scheduled to occur despite the City withdrawing certain activities and the ribbon-cutting ceremony according to the Facebook event.

The City has stated that speeches will be rescheduled to thank the partners and sponsors that contributed to the park’s construction but has yet to release a date.

The family activities are still scheduled to run from 11 a.m. to 3 p..m. There is outdoor skating, face painting and a DJ to play music during the event. Hot chocolate, sweet treats, stilt walkers and performance artists were scheduled for the event but have been withdrawn due to the protest.

The square is located at the former Louis Street Parking Lot off the corner of Aylmer Street and Charlotte Street. It is a year-round space for community events and activities. The space includes a refrigerated outdoor skating rink during winter and a water play feature for the summer.

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