The Township of Madawaska Valley has released a concept plan for Lakeshore Park in Barry’s Bay.
The concept plan will help guide redevelopment of the park over the coming years and be shovel ready for grant opportunities.
Lakeshore Park and Omanique Beach/Trail are located in the shores of Kamaniskeg Lake in Barry’s Bay.
FEATURES THAT WOULD BE INCLUDED OR REFURBISHED
There are plans to install and refurbish a number of features including tennis courts, beach volleyball courts, a basketball court, the wharf/boat launch, a swimming dock, a splash pad, a stage/amphitheater, universal exercise equipment, play structure equipment, public washrooms, a nature trail, boardwalk, a visitors centre, a parking lot and more.
BENEFITS OF IMPROVING THE PARK
Recreation and Community Development Coordinator Hannah Gutoskie says the plan also provides the Township with a way to fix issues at Lakeshore Park they often hear about from residents, particularly as it relates to our Canada Goose population, lack of sufficient or safe parking, and drainage issues in the playground area. The concept plan also addresses tourism opportunities, beautification of the space, creates a “climate-smart park”, and would be more accessible.
LAKESHORE PARK REDEVELOPMENT COSTS
Estimates for the park redevelopment range from $1.3-million to $2.2-million. High ticket items for the Lakeshore Park redevelopment project include $150,000 for a splash pad, $300,000 for a visitors centre, $100,000 for a swimming dock, $150,000 for the stage/amphitheater, $100,000 for new play structures and $150,000 for a multi-use boardwalk trail (estimates provided are at the high range for the project budget).
PROJECT PHASING
The concept plan proposes a phased implementation, based on strategic priorities initially identified by the Township during the Concept development process, as well as priorities identified during the Community Survey.
First priorities include:
- Site Utilities.
- Parking lot.
- Rain Garden and Bioswales to manage erosion and drainage issues.
- Trail system, including all-season access to washroom.
- Beach expansion/turf grass removal.
- Goose Management Strategy.
- Splash Pad
Second priorities include:
- Lakeshore Drive improvements.
- Main and Secondary park entrances.
- Playground improvements.
- Plaza.
- Picnic Shelter improvements.
- Shoreline Seating Pods.
- Signage and wayfinding.
Third priorities include:
- Swimming dock/pier.
- Sand volleyball court.
- Basketball court.
- Stage.
- Visitor Center.
- Additional exercise stations.
To read the entire report, please click the following link: Lakeshore Park Concept Plan – Final Report.
(written by: Rudy Kadlec)
