COMMUNITY NEWS Orchard or Wildlife? Choose the theme of Paris’ next park!

By Casandra Turnbull

The County of Brant has shared plans for the new Arlington Meadows Subdivision Park and Splash Pad in Paris, and staff is asking for your opinion to bring the project to life This space was designed with fun in mind, a place to find community connection, and explore nature exploration.

The plan started in June 2023, when Parks and Recreation staff gathered community feedback for the initial design concepts through a survey to help shape this large 5-acre park Now residents can vote between two unique themes, Orchard and Woods & Wildlife Residents also have the chance to potentially name the new park as well.

Kathy Ballantyne, Director of Facilities and Special Projects shared some information on how the park themes were narrowed down Through a little bit of research, county staff, including Ballantyne, selected the Orchard theme derived from the former Schuyler Orchard that were located on Rest Acres Road and Powerline Rd.

“Although the Orchard theme is a bit unusual, staff thought it would be a totally unique park theme and tie in nicely with the history of the local area We are hopeful the history may also inspire a park name that is well suited for this new park,” she said, adding the Orchard theme also can be associated with healthy eating and fun family traditions such as apple picking, fall harvest events as well as embrace participation in outdoor activities.

As for the Woods and Wildlife theme, it was selected from strong feedback the county received through the Parks Master Plan showing citizens’ connection to nature and the environment

“Wildlife creatures and native fauna are easily woven into park design elements. Additionally, splashpad manufacturers often include these types of products in their standard offerings. This theme also reiterates our commitment to our Bee City designation in which we can develop and promote pollinator habitats,” said Ballantyne.

The park will be located on Becker Street in the Arlington Meadows subdivision. Regardless of what design you select, they both include:

•a splash pad

•playgrounds

•full sized lit basketball court

•softball field

•seasonal washrooms

•accessible pathways

•spaces for all ages and abilities to enjoy year-round

You can share your ideas for a new name and vote for your favourite theme, as well as view detailed plans on the EngageBrant website.

Visit EngageBrant.ca/ArlingtonPark by Wednesday, February 12, 2025

If you want to engage in person, there will be an open house on Wednesday, February 5 from 6:30 pm to 8 pm at the Brant Sports Complex.

Click here for a detailed look at the designs!

The Woods and Wildlife theme (right) includes:

•Forest PatchesCreate a natural woodland feel

•Animal TracksPathway art showcasing local wildlife

•Seating AreasSpaces for learning and gathering

The Orchard theme (left) includes:

•Linear Plantingsreflect growth and community

•Meadow AreasSupport biodiversity and buffer development

•Interactive PlayEducational and engaging play features