Title
Woodbend Community Society - Major Sustainability Grant Request
Proposed Motion
That Council approve the Woodbend Community Society's request of $95,590 for an inclusive playground re-development, funded through the Major Sustainability Grant, to be included in the 2027 Budget, as presented.
Body
Administration Recommendation
Administration supports the proposed motion.
Purpose
To seek Council support for the Woodbend Community Society outdoor playground re-development.
Summary
The Woodbend Community Society recognizes the changing demographics of the area and is launching the "Rebuild the Fun" playground re-development initiative to replace an ageing, inaccessible playground, with a modern, inclusive space for children aged 3 to 10. The project addresses critical safety issues and accessibility gaps, replacing timber structures and sand surfacing with accessible equipment and engineered wood fiber to serve local families and those with diverse abilities.
Developed in consultation with community members, the redesign aims to nurture social connection by developing an age appropriate, safe playground with a shade structure and seating creating a safe, community-focused recreation hub. The project replaces outdated equipment and sand surfacing with safer, more durable materials and inclusive, sensory-safe elements. This initiative aims to provide high-quality, local play opportunities, eliminating the need for residents to travel to neighboring communities for accessible facilities.
By incorporating engineered wood fiber and wheelchair-friendly structures, the Society aims to create an environment where children of all abilities can play independently alongside their families. This is vital to the community’s social fabric, as the current site’s lack of accessibility often forces families to travel to Edmonton for suitable play spaces. Beyond recreation, the new playground will enhance the appeal of renting the community hall for family activities. Behind the playground is an open field that community members use for soccer. Building an accessible playground next to the soccer field will turn the grounds of the Woodbend Community Hall into a safe, versatile, and dynamic green space where children and family members of different ages and abilities can engage in recreation simultaneously. While younger children use the playground, older children and adults can engage in soccer, while caregivers supervise from comfortable picnic tables and shaded areas.
Alternative Options:
1. Council approve funding at a different value.
2. Council choose to not approve funding for this initiative.
Strategic Plan/Policy/Legal/Staff Implications:
Complete Communities - We recognize the diversity of Parkland County's communities, while fostering a unified and shared vision for Parkland as a whole.
Financial Impact:
Cost: $95,590
Source of Funding: 2027 Budget
Other: