Hamilton's Lower Reach Park: A Fresh Start
Town enforces key parking spots, revamps main entry for Lower Reach Park redevelopment in Smiths Falls
The quaint town of Smiths Falls has set its sights on revamping Lower Reach Park after approving the central parking lot and entryway design.
At its meeting on May 5, the Council reviewed the detailed blueprint for the park's transformation—a well-crafted guide that carefully lays out each feature to maximize utility. As Coun. Peter McKenna emphasized, this strategic vision serves as a foundation for subsequent councils to consider at budget time, with the remaining enhancements to follow.
A brief history: Prior to this ambitious redesign, the expansive green space was once a repurposed landfill that underwent a transformation in the late '70s. The report states that although a master plan was created, only a handful of recommendations were implemented, resulting in a park that evolved incoherently over the years. With a growing need for updated community facilities and a framework for phased capital investments, the park underwent a renovation initiative last year.
The proposed redesign includes substantial improvements to accessibility, recreational facilities, and community spaces, with the following main components:
Parking & Accessibility
- A strategically placed central parking lot accommodating approximately 120 vehicles.
- Over 400 new or redesigned parking spaces across five zones.
- Enhancements to Old Slys Road entry for improved safety for both drivers and pedestrians.
Recreational Facilities
- Redesigned sports areas boasting new soccer fields, ball diamonds, bocce, and pickleball courts.[2]
- A splashpad and inclusive playgrounds designed to cater to various age groups.[2]
Community Spaces & Natural Features
- A bustling central plaza to encourage community interactions.
- Invigorated trail systems for walking and cycling.
- An upgraded pier for paddling activities and events.
- A potential swimming beach, providing residents with an exciting new recreational option.[3]
The redesign aims to create a modern, accessible, and enjoyable recreational space through community engagement. This approach involves public consultations and surveys to gather local input, ensuring the finished park meets the needs and wishes of the community.
The full report, prepared by Fotenn Planning + Design, can be found here.
[1] City of Smiths Falls official website (www.SmithsFalls.ca)
[2] Leabourne, S., 2021. Plans for new playgrounds, splashpad in Smiths Falls unveiled, according to designer. Retrieved April 29, 2021, from https://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/local-news/plans-for-new-playgrounds-splashpad-in-smiths-falls-unveiled-according-to-designer
[3] Cavanagh, E., 2021. Potential swimming beach in Smiths Falls could be reality soon, but it's not the only option considered. Retrieved May 4, 2021 from https://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/ottawa/potential-swimming-beach-in-smiths-falls-could-be-reality-soon-but-its-not-the-only-option-considered-3976662
- The renovated Lower Reach Park in Smiths Falls will offer residents diverse entertainment options, such as inclusive playgrounds and a bustling central plaza, fostering social interaction.
- The redesigned sports facilities in the park will accommodate a variety of activities, including soccer fields, ball diamonds, bocce, pickleball courts, and potential paddling events on the upgraded pier.
- In the sphere of politics, the redesign of Lower Reach Park represents a significant investment in the city's infrastructure, promising to elevate the quality of outdoor-living and home-and-garden spaces for local residents.
- As the transformation proceeds, businesses in Smiths Falls may find increased foot traffic and tourism, as the revitalized park becomes an attractive destination for both locals and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering opportunities for leisure and relaxation.
