City employees are seeking public input as they plan for next year’s replacement of aging playground equipment in four of Guelph’s parks.
Swings, slides, climbers, and other play equipment in Exhibition, Lyon, Deerpath, and Norm Jary parks will be replaced with new structures, which meet current Canadian Standards Association’s (CSA) standards for children’s playspaces and equipment.
“Depending on use and location, play structures have an average life span of 12 to 15 years. Each year the City makes it a priority to replace aging play equipment in our parks,” says Murray Cameron, general manager of Parks and Recreation. “This well-received process involves the opportunity for residents to decide just how their local park will be equipped—ensuring each unique playground is not only used but loved.”
To discuss the community’s needs and desires for new playground equipment in Exhibition Park, the City will host a public meeting on November 26 from 6:30-8 p.m. at Victory Public School, located at 135 Exhibition Street.
From now until December 13, residents can also submit written comments to City Hall, 1 Carden Street, Guelph, ON N1H 3A1 or email [email protected].
The City is also seeking written comments for:
• Lyon Park, 299 York Road
• Deerpath Park, 18 Deepath Drive
• Norm Jary park, 22 Shelldale Crescent
“In their correspondence, residents should indicate the park name, playground user disabilities, and contact information if they would like a reply from City staff,” Cameron adds.
Feedback received will assist the City is choosing appropriate play equipment for the four parks. 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.
The City is responsible for maintaining 87 park playgrounds. In 2013, aging play equipment was replaced in 11 parks through the City’s annual playground equipment replacement program.