Peterborough County to Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Douro Park On Sept. 1

Peterborough County is celebrating Douro Park’s 50th anniversary which marks five decades of preserving natural beauty and providing a space for community engagement on Sept. 1 at 3 p.m. at 205 Douro Second Line, Douro-Dummer.

Google Maps Screenshot.

Since 1974, the Park has been a cherished destination for residents and visitors as stated in a press release. With 151 acres, Douro Park lines both banks of the beautiful Indian River. It contains baseball diamonds, soccer fields, pickleball courts, tennis courts, a playground and picnic areas and scenic landscapes.

The anniversary event will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including:

• Welcome remarks from local officials and park advocates reflecting on the park's history and impact

“Douro Park has been a vital part of our community for 50 years, and we are excited to celebrate this milestone,” said Mayor Heather Watson. “This event is not just about looking back; it’s about looking forward and continuing to protect and enhance this beautiful space for future generations.” "The celebration will also highlight upcoming initiatives aimed at improving park facilities and promoting long-term ecological health." Community members are encouraged to participate and share their memories of Douro Park over the years.

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Broadway Park Officially Opens In City's North End

Broadway Park is officially up and running as the City celebrated its official opening on Thursday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The park is at 872 Broadway Blvd. in the City’s north end, northeast of Milroy Drive and Chemong Road.

The new Park features include a playground with swings, a basketball half-court, seating areas, and paved walkways. The City’s Parkland Development Assistance Program, Tollington Parks Endowment Fund and Access Fund supported the project.

Northcrest Ward Councillors Andrew Beamer and Dave Haacke joined the neighbourhood for the official opening of the park.

“Neighbourhood parks contribute to healthy, thriving neighbourhoods. The opening of this park provides new recreational amenities for the well-being of people in our growing community,” said Haacke.

“This new park is a great addition to the north end of Peterborough,” said Beamer. “The new playground equipment, basketball half court and accessible features throughout the park reflect priorities identified by the neighbourhood and will ensure that families and people of all ages will continue to enjoy the park for years to come.”

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Bonnerworth Park Project Consultation Extended

The public commenting period for the draft plan for the Bonnerworth Park project has been extended to 5 p.m. on Aug. 21.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Public comments on the draft plan, which can be viewed through the City’s community engagement hub can be submitted using the comments tool on the project page, by emailing bonnerworthproject@peterborough.ca or by calling 705-742-0050 ext. 2226#.

The draft plan for the park, located at 550 McDonnel St., was posted last Thursday.

A presentation outlining the features of the draft plan is posted on the project page.

A community outdoor recreation facility needs study, community consultation, the project budget and site-specific technical studies to inform the creation of the project plan.

A summary of the submissions from the current commenting period will be posted on the project page.

Community consultation for the Bonnerworth Park project and the Knights of Columbus Park project was undertaken from February through April 2024 with two surveys, two public meetings, and meetings with recreation facility user groups related to the two projects.

City Council initially approved the Bonnerworth Park project when it approved the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study in October 2023. It approved the Bonnerworth Park project in the City’s 2024 Budget in December 2023.

The draft plan shows features such as:

• About 275 trees will be planted in the park

• About 63 per cent of the site will be green space – landscaped/grass

• Setbacks from neighbouring properties

• Noise attenuation measures, including noise attenuation fencing and landscaping such as berms

• The location of 14 pickleball courts, down from 16 when the concept was initially introduced

• The location of the new bike pump track will be designed with grass areas between the bike paths

• The expansion of the existing skateboard park

• Parking areas totalling 44 spaces, which is a reduction from a previous concept

• Pathways within the park

Construction is expected to begin in fall 2024.

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City of Peterborough to Bring Bonnerworth Park Project Draft Plan to Advisory Committee review

A draft plan for the Bonnerworth Park project will be reviewed during a combined meeting of the Arenas, Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and the Accessibility Advisory Committee on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., announced on Thursday.

Coalition member Geoff Rix performing an “Indy” grab while airborne off a launch ramp after the Bonnerworth West 49 Skatepark revitalization in 2021. City Council initially approved the Bonnerworth Park project when it approved the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study in October 2023. It approved the Bonnerworth Park project in the City’s 2024 Budget in December 2023. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The review includes an expanded skateboard park, a new bike pump track, pickleball courts, planting trees and landscaping.

The meeting will be live-streamed on the City’s website while no public delegations are allowed at advisory committee meetings.

The draft plan shows features such as:

• About 275 trees will be planted in the park

• About 63 per cent of the site will be green space – landscaped/grass

• Setbacks from neighbouring properties

• Noise attenuation measures, including noise attenuation fencing and landscaping such as berms

• The location of 14 pickleball courts, down from 16 when the concept was initially introduced

• The location of the new bike pump track that will be designed with grass areas between the bike paths

• The expansion of the existing skateboard park

• Parking areas totalling 44 spaces, which is a reduction from a previous concept

• Pathways within the park

The two advisory committees will be able to provide feedback about the draft plan for consideration before the City finalizes the document ahead of construction, which is expected to begin this fall.

Public comments on the draft plan, which can be viewed through the City’s community engagement hub, can be submitted using the comments tool on the project page, by sending an email to bonnerworthproject@peterborough.ca or by calling 705-742-0050 ext. 2226#.

Public comments can be submitted until 11:59 p.m. on August 16, for consideration before finalizing the project plan.

The project team is considering feedback from community consultation, including feedback from the Arenas, Parks, and Recreation Advisory Committee, the Accessibility Advisory Committee, and broader public feedback from the consultation process, before finalizing the draft plan for the project according to the City.

The draft plan is also informed by various studies and factors such as noise studies, traffic flow, groundwater conditions, and stormwater management.

Community consultation for the Bonnerworth Park project and the Knights of Columbus Park project was undertaken from February through April with two surveys, two public meetings and meetings with recreation facility user groups related to the two projects.

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Quaker Foods City Square Outdoor Skating Rink Closed For Season

The Quaker Foods City Square outdoor skating rink closed for the season as spring temperatures are in Peterborough’s forecast.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Thank you to everyone who gathered this year for skating, the community tree lighting event in December and skating parties hosted by City Council, Recreation and Parks Services and the Peterborough Youth Council,” said Councillors Lesley Parnell and Gary Baldwin.

The Square hosts numerous activities throughout the year including the Peterborough Regional Farmers’ Market that takes place Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., from May 1 to Oct. 30.

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City of Peterborough Seeking Public Input For Redevlopment of Knights of Columbus Park

The future of the Knights of Columbus Park is in the public’s hands as the City of Peterborough is seeking their consultation on investing in the community park to enhance the space and add new recreation features.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The park is located at 5 Park St. N. will become a new recreation hub.

Work on Phase 1 of the improvements including four tennis courts and associated lighting, is expected to start in fall 2024. Phase 2 work is proposed for 2025 including upgrades to the existing Legacy Bowl, a new washroom building, a pet exercise area and a shade structure.

The Co-chairs of the Community Services (Recreation and Parks, Fire Services, and Arenas) portfolio, Councillor Lesley Parnell and Councillor Gary Baldwin, encourage residents to participate in the community consultation.

“We’re excited to see the Knights of Columbus Park reimagined in a way that complements the work planned for Bonnerworth Park,” said Baldwin. “Together the new recreation facilities will make a big step to meeting the needs of Peterborough residents, including new tennis courts at Knights of Columbus and new pickleball courts at Bonnerworth. We want to hear from you to gain insights from a community perspective.”

“The new multi-year Parks & Outdoor Facilities Master Plan was endorsed by Council in September 2023. This was the result of an extensive community engagement process involving all major stakeholder groups and has been confirmed at budget,” said Parnell. “We are now working through the site plans for each approved park/recreation area as the master plan is implemented. Next on the horizon will be a full review of our indoor recreation needs. Check out ConnectPTBO.ca for all ongoing projects,”

A Public Drop-in Session will take place on April 4 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 on the proposed development.

Everyone is invited to complete the online survey that 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.

The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on April 12. Once the survey has closed, an update summarizing the findings will be posted online. Additional consultation is planned with facility user groups. Future information about the project and a concept plan will be updated on the page as the project proceeds.

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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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