Grey Highlands will be receiving some recreation plans for King Edward Park, including a new splash pad.
Council will be hearing from the Markdale Recreation Committee about opportunities to enhance the park by creating an inviting recreation space for the community.
The committee will be asking council to approve the park as the location for a community gathering garden, complete with a splash pad.
The committee says the park could host bowling, what appears in their presentation to be a ping-pong table and other games, as well as benches, hardscapes, gardens, and trees.
The park was selected as it’s already home to the library, ball diamond, playground, and basketball court, and is also accessible as well as within walking distance from most homes.
The committee adds future downtown revitalization will also draw families to the community garden.
There is a fundraising goal of $250,000, which the committee aims to meet through community events like movie nights, bingo, and collaborations, as well as seeking sponsorships with Grey Highlands, Chapman’s and other businesses, and applying for federal and provincial grants.
The project is estimated to cost $347,000, but with in kind donations, the cost goes down to $249,000.
The committee will ask council to pledge $100,000 over multiple budget years to support the project.
Council will be hearing from the committee during its meeting on May 1 at 10 a.m.
