The District of Kitimat has launched a public survey to gather feedback on a proposed spray park, following a feasibility study presented at a council meeting in early September.
“The importance of community engagement to tailor the design to local preferences is highly desirable,” said Kim Unger, senior landscape architect at McElhanney, during her presentation on Sept. 9.
Council reviewed three potential designs for the park, ultimately choosing a medium-scale option featuring a larger splash pad, retrofitted playground, and a standalone change room and washroom. The estimated cost for this option is between $1.5 million and $1.9 million, with operational costs expected to range from $13,000 to $18,000 per year.
The public survey aims to gather input on several design elements, including themes such as ocean adventures and Kitimat’s industrial history, as well as potential updates to the nearby Lions Park playground. Additionally, residents are asked for feedback on refurbishing the district’s two existing wading pools, built in the 1960s, at Chilko Park and Heron Park.
The project traces back to a petition presented in December 2022, which spurred the feasibility study and budget allocation in 2023. Following council's decision to move forward with the medium-scale design, a timeline has been established. The process includes a one-month consultation phase, six months for design, and five months for construction, with a projected completion date by late 2025.
“There’s a groundswell in our community to see this happen,” said Councillor Terry Marleau, while supporting the decision to proceed with the more cost-effective option two, considering future water consumption and climate impacts.
Residents can take the survey on the District's Get Involved Kitimat page, at getinvolved.kitimat.ca