Photo Credit: Matt Hermiz
Owen Sound is putting a call out to individuals or groups for help with the replacement of the Weaver’s Creek boardwalk.
The popular wooden walkway nestled in the forest near the pool at Harrison Park has been closed since July, when a tree fell down and damaged it. The 20-year-old boardwalk was already deteriorating and city staff have indicated it won’t be re-opening until it is replaced.
Owen Sound has budgeted $50,000 to put towards the replacement of Weaver’s Creek boardwalk. But it’s expected to cost around $100,000 and the city is looking for partners to cover the rest.
City council approved at its meeting Monday a community services committee recommendation to proceed with “an open call for community groups and skilled volunteers” to support the project. The city will be looking for financial help or in-kind contributions of materials and labour.
“I think this is a really good example where the city can proactively reach out to, and let community partners know when there’s an opportunity to partner on things that are of community benefit,” says Coun. Jon Farmer, who moved the recommendation during the Sept. 20 community services committee meeting.
According to a report by Owen Sound’s manager of parks and open space Adam Parsons, Weaver’s Creek boardwalk was constructed in 2003 through a partnership between the city and nine community partners.