Toronto launches outreach campaign to refresh parks and rec plans

Ontario Construction News staff writer

Toronto has launched a major outreach campaign as part of the review and refresh of its Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan and Parkland Strategy, two documents that will shape the city’s spending on new parkland and recreational facilities over the next 20 years.

“As Toronto continues to grow and change, it is essential that our plans are aligned with the values and priorities of our residents,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “This is a unique opportunity for Torontonians to shape their community and enhance our public spaces for generations to come.”

Over the next six months, staff will host public meetings in-person and online to gather input, prioritizing participation from Indigenous, Black, and equity-deserving communities to ensure inclusivity in decision-making.

The updated strategies are expected to incorporate the needs of Indigenous communities, leading to the creation of more welcoming and supportive recreational facilities and parks.

Comments can also be shared through surveys until Dec. 18.

The Parks and Recreation Facilities Plan has previously guided the development of community centers, indoor pools, and outdoor recreational facilities and the Parkland Strategy aims to ensure that outdoor spaces are vibrant and equitable by identifying areas lacking sufficient parkland and prioritizing them for future investment.

“The Facilities Plan and the Parkland Strategy aim to create a vision for our public spaces and common grounds that prioritize sustainability, accessibility, and community well-being,” said Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie. “Through gathering feedback from residents in all parts of the City, we can build beautiful public spaces that work for everyone.”