Environment and Parks

The effects of climate change are becoming increasingly clear to all of us. We are experiencing hotter summers, heavier rainfall, increased flooding risks, and more pressure on the natural systems that make our city so special. At the same time, residents are asking for more opportunities to access, enjoy, and connect with green spaces — because in a compact city like ours, parks, trails, trees, creeks, and public spaces are the backyard for the majority of our residents. That is why I believe we need to make the greener choice the easier choice: by expanding access to nature, protecting and restoring natural areas, strengthening our urban forest, improving how we manage heat, cooling, and stormwater, and ensuring that as our city grows, people continue to have beautiful, healthy, and welcoming outdoor spaces close to home.

Linda at the dog park with a white dog.

Since being elected Mayor, we have:

  • Delivered the Climate and Environment Strategy 
  • Expanded the pollinator meadows and installation of bird and bat habitat
  • Created new community gardens
  • Approved the Asset Management Strategy
  • Endorsed the Urban Forest Directions Report and provided direction for staff to prepare an Urban Forest Management Plan
  • Planted over 700 trees and 2600 native species, supporting biodiversity and climate resiliency
  • Opened two new parks, TOPO Park and Eastern Park, in Central Lonsdale 
  • Advanced the Harbour Swim Deck Project in Waterfront Park creating open water swimming for the public by 2027
  • Engaged on the new Parks and Public Space Plan 
  • Moved forward on Kings Mill Walk Park and Harbourside Waterfront expanding access to renewed waterfront public space
  • Continued activation of public space across The Shipyards, Civic Plaza, Grand Boulevard, Waterfront Park and Open Streets
  • Completed improvements to Hammersley, Mahon, and Semisch parks
  • Provided the safe consumption of alcohol in select City parks
  • Invested in new Accessible Playgrounds in City Elementary Schools
  • Adopted a new tree bylaw 
  • Held dozens of Park Stewardship events with thousands of volunteer hours contributed
  • Completed the Community Wildfire Protection Plan and tactics completed for all high priority treatment areas
  • Moved forward with the Dog Friendly Strategy
  • Advocated to the Provincial Government for pet friendly homes in rental buildings