Proposed Upgrades

In August 2024 a community workshop was held at the former South Centennial School, where community members and stakeholders shared their ideas for the revitalization of the South Playground. The list below is a compilation of the ideas that were shared at the meeting (the numbers represent the popularity of the item among the groups in the workshop).

• Open air pavilion (5)
• Security cameras (1)
• Remove hill (5)
• Basketball court (1)
• Green space/picnic area (3)
• Bike racks (1)
• Outdoor fitness equipment (3)
• Artwork (1)
• Splash pad/water course (2)
• Increased curb appeal (1)
• Accessible play equipment (2)
• Entrance (gate) on east side to Parent’s Place (1)
• Widen/improve the concrete walkway (2)
• Vendor area (1)
• Washrooms (2)
• Zip Line and obstacle course (1)
• Gardens (2)
• Graffiti wall (1)
• Sensory equipment (1)
• Playground lighting (1)
• Inclusive equipment (1)

After reviewing the above list staff proposed to proceed with the top three items. Council approved moving forward with these three items at the April 10th, 2025 council meeting:

1) Open Air Pavilion

The pavilion will act as a gathering place for the community, facilitating a wide range of community-based activities and programs, and shelter from the elements. The pavilion will be constructed on the former building site, at the Southeast corner of the property. This will save costs as the existing concrete pad will be reused (a savings of $12,000). The pavilion will include lighting and electrical outlets and will be approximately 24 ft by 36 ft in size. The procurement process will include a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the design and construction of an open-air pavilion. Estimated cost is $45,000 to $65,000.

2) Remove the hill/mound

Removing the hill will create a more open and accessible area suitable for picnics, outdoor games and community gatherings. Some of the material (soil) can be distributed to low areas in the park and some will be repurposed or donated (as fill material). This area will essentially remain as an open space intended for free play. Estimated cost is $4,000 to $6,000.

3) Green space/picnic area

Enhance the green spaces by installing benches and picnic tables throughout the site. A new walkway c/w accessible picnic table will be installed near the southwest corner of the site, beneath the shade trees. Low maintenance shrubs, including sensory plants, will be planted along the new walkway. Estimated cost is $10,000 to $14,000.