Bower Ponds and Heritage Ranch improvements set for Capital Budget debate

Two of the city’s most popular park nodes could receive some tender, loving care in 2018, if council approves funding during the upcoming Capital Budget talks.

Up for consideration first is an allotment of $1.63 million to improve the pavilion at Bower Ponds.

Enhancements for the pavilion, which was built in 1984, are based on design work done this year and consultations done in 2014.

Upgrades would include universal washrooms that can be accessed from inside or outside, improvements to the physical accessibility of the building and general aesthetics. The addition of more accessible washrooms also provides the opportunity to extend the hours of service for them, which was raised numerous times in past community consultations.

Meanwhile, $1.016 million is on the table for enhancements at Heritage Ranch.

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Completed in 2009 and based on ‘significant stakeholder and community input,’ the Heritage Ranch Concept Plan envisioned an expansion of the existing visitor centre including to the dining room, public washrooms and kitchen.

In 2013, the City completed upgrades to all of those things except for the meeting/dining room and office spaces. This year’s funding request would see those things come to fruition.

The final stages of the concept plan, including development of community gathering areas and other parks amenities, are in the 2019-2027 Capital Plan with a placeholder allotment of $863,000 in 2025.

Improvements at both Bower Ponds and Heritage Ranch are proposed to be funded through tax supported long-term debt.