Ariel Troster
People in Centretown care about our parks and have a lot to say about what to do with them. That is the overwhelming message I received from residents this summer, whether it was about the new splash pad that will be built in Dundonald Park, or the plans for the new 1010 Somerset development and Plouffe Park nearby.
It’s no wonder we care so much about greenspace in our downtown core, because there is so little of it. Somerset Ward only has 20 percent tree coverage. Experts say that we need 30 to 40 percent to combat the urban heat dome effect and cool our neighbourhoods.
This summer, the Ward 14 team went on a bike tour of Centretown parks with city staff to start brainstorming ideas on how we could revive and renew public spaces. So far, our shortlist includes misting stations, water fountains, better lighting, more comfortable seating, and covered shade structures when possible.
At St. Luke’s Park, the basketball court is up for a complete renewal, and we have been working with the basketball community to ensure that the court meets players’ needs.
At Dundonald Park, the splash pad is only one addition that we are looking to make. We have reached out to community associations and park users for other suggestions. Making the walking paths more accessible is a key priority. But we also know that our community needs open greenspace that can remain flexible for a variety of uses, including picnics, concerts in the park, toddler story times, and pick-up sports. If you have ideas about what you would like to see in Dundonald Park, please reach out.
The proposed new development at 1010 Somerset has been generating some controversy. While I am absolutely thrilled to see that new recreation facilities, a French public school, affordable housing, a potential arts hub, and sports fields will be coming to West Centretown, I share the community’s concerns about the proposed placement of the school in the middle of Plouffe Park.
To be clear, I know that French-speaking students are desperate for a new school building, as the one they are temporarily located in is in a serious state of disrepair. Ensuring a safe learning environment for these kids is a top priority. But I also don’t think we need to sacrifice a well-used park in order to build the school. The site has plenty of room for both.
I encourage you to fill out the Engage Ottawa survey at engage.ottawa.ca/1010-somerset about the project and share your perspective. It is important that the city get this right.
Here’s hoping that the weather stays mild this fall, so we can continue enjoying the treasured parks in Centretown – and keep dreaming about how to make them even better.
Ariel Troster is the city councillor for Somerset Ward and can be reached at Ariel.Troster@ottawa.ca