Town of Fort Erie Approves 2024 Parks and Open Space Master Plan

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Fort Erie, ON – (February 24, 2025)

The Town of Fort Erie is pleased to announce the approval of the 2024 Parks and Open Space Master Plan (POSMP), an aspirational and robust guide aimed at enhancing the Town's parks and recreational areas to meet the evolving needs of the community.

The Parks and Open Space Master Plan, developed with extensive community engagement and expert consultation, outlines a strategic vision for the planning, development, maintenance, renewal, and enhancement of Fort Erie's parks and open spaces. It aligns with the Town's commitment to quality of life and community well-being, as highlighted in Council's Corporate Strategic Plan.

Key areas of focus in the plan include:

• Improved Maintenance: Enhancing upkeep of parks and the Friendship Trail.
• Facility Upgrades: Improving play structures, pathways, and courts.
• Additional Amenities: Introducing boat launches, shaded seating areas, BBQ zones, multi-use courts, splash pads, sports lighting, historical plaques, mobility mats, and natural hiking trails.
• Wayfinding and Signage: Implementing better signage for parks and water access points.

The plan also introduces a refined park classification system, categorizing parks into Neighbourhood Parks, Community Parks, and Specialized Parks, to better serve the diverse recreational needs of residents.

“The 2024 Parks and Open Space Master Plan is a transformative step forward in shaping Fort Erie’s recreational future. Our parks and open spaces are the heart of our community, places where families gather, children play, and residents connect with nature. This plan reflects our shared vision for a town that prioritizes accessibility, sustainability, and high-quality outdoor experiences. By investing in these enhancements, we are not only improving our parks but also strengthening the well-being of our residents and the vibrancy of our town for generations to come.”

- Mayor Wayne Redekop

The Town acknowledges the valuable input from residents, stakeholders, and partners throughout the development of this plan. The community's feedback has been instrumental in shaping a vision that resonates with the needs and aspirations of Fort Erie's citizens.

"A thoughtfully crafted Parks and Open Space Masterplan is more than just a vision for green spaces; it is a commitment to cultivating vibrant, sustainable environments that elevate the quality of life for all. Through careful planning and active community engagement, we have developed this document to promote well-being, preserve natural beauty, and foster meaningful connections."

-  Anamika Dilwaria, Director, Planning, Building and By-law Services

As the Town moves forward with the implementation of the Master Plan, residents are encouraged to stay engaged and participate in upcoming initiatives aimed at bringing this vision to life.

To view the plan online please visit: Town of Fort Erie Parks and Open Space Master Plan.