NEW PATH TO BETTER MOBILITY
Realtors Park, in the Albert Park neighbourhood, is getting a makeover, starting with a multi-use pathway around the perimeter. Alex Johnson writes the aim is to increase the mobility of the elderly and youth who use the property.
A HUB OF ACTIVITY
Realtors Park is home to tennis courts, cricket cages, basketball courts, a spray park, the South Leisure Centre, a soccer field and the Optimist Arena. Extendicare Sunset — which houses 152 elderly and young adults — is conveniently located next to the park. Many care-home residents visit the park daily, weather permitting.
SMOOTH RIDES FOR EXTENDICARE RESIDENTS
The pathway will include a loop circuit behind the Extendicare — allowing residents and families better access to the park. Gary Rofe drives from Emerald Park to visit his wheelchair-bound mother Rose at the Extendicare, a few times a week. He said the park is one of her favourite spots, but the walk to and from the care home can be dangerous. “Those sidewalks are terrible,” Rose said. “Poor Mom gets shaken around in her chair. I have to put on her seatbelt. I actually almost dumped her, by accident, the other day. A path would definitely benefit us.”
MAKE THE KIDS SWEAT
Albert Park Community Association (APCA) wanted to focus on youth fitness, because of the high volumes of children participating in activities, throughout the spring, summer and fall. According to ParticipAction Canada, only nine per cent of five- to 17-yearolds achieve the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity they need each day. The pathway will provide options for outdoor play, such as biking and Rollerblading — free of cost and safe from traffic.
PAYING THE PRICE
Total cost of construction is estimated at $150,000. Funding partners have donated $181,410. Any cash above the total cost will go toward the construction of a wheelchair-accessible entrance in the park’s northeast corner. Phase 1 is set to begin in the fall. Cost will run at about $56,000.
THE BELLS AND WHISTLES WISH LIST
On top of adding trees, benches and landscaping, APCA has plans for a few more outdoor accessories — upgraded cricket cages, basketball courts and the possibility of outdoor table tennis and chess.
FOLLOW THE ENGRAVED BRICK ROAD
If you’ve ever dreamt of having your donation permanently recognized in brick form, APCA has you covered. Thursday is the last day that, with a donation of $125, you will receive a brick — engraved with a three-line message of your choice — to be installed at a designated area in the park. For $200 you can upgrade to a larger brick with six lines of text. All proceeds will go toward the park.