Baird Park - Play Structure Renewal

What We Learned

During soil testing in late 2025, the City found that some deeper soil in Baird Park contains higher levels of metals and other materials. These results suggest that older fill may have been used in parts of the park many years ago. Because of this, the City needs to complete more detailed environmental studies across the entire park in 2026.

The park remains safe to use. Ottawa Public Health has confirmed that everyday park activities do not bring people into contact with the deeper soil where these materials were found. The sand under the play structure is clean, and the swing set area already has a protective layer that covers the soil.

How This Affects the Project

· Environmental assessments will take place through 2026.

· Design and construction for the new play structure are expected to begin in 2027.

Why More Testing Is Needed

These environmental studies will help the City understand how much of the park contains older fill and whether any parts need risk management or clean‑up. This careful work is important to make sure the park stays safe now and during future construction.

What the City Is Doing

The City will:

· Investigate soil conditions across the whole park

· Plan next steps, if any areas need special treatment

· Keep the community informed as new information becomes available

We understand that delays are frustrating, especially for families looking forward to new play equipment. Our goal is to complete this work properly and safely so that the renewed play structure can serve the community for many years.

For additional information, an FAQ has been added and can be downloaded from the FAQ link.

The City of Ottawa is renewing the play structure at Baird Park, located at 2388 Fitzroy Street.

Two exciting designs have been developed, and we invite your feedback to help shape the final design.

Concept Plan A: Nautical Theme

This design features a ship-inspired play structure with:

• Spiral and double slides
• Climbing walls and cable net climber
• Nautical panels including a ship wheel, compass, and cannon
• Cozy and hammock seating
• A triangular rope climber for older children
• Accessible sand play area with a playhouse

Concept Plan B: Fire Station Theme

This design transforms the playground into a mini fire hall, including:

• Fire truck spring toy and themed panels (valves, bell, fire hall entrance)
• Combined age play structure with climbing wall, curved slide, and steering wheel
• Triple cable climber for older kids
• Accessible sand play area with sand digger and lab

What Both Designs Have in Common:

• Accessible asphalt paths
• Accessible benches with stroller/wheelchair rest space
• Preservation of existing trees

Your feedback will help us choose a final design that best fits the Fitzroy Harbour community.

After the survey, the project team will review all feedback and prepare a final plan for detailed design and future construction.

Please be aware that the final park plan may differ from the concept being presented as a result of the public consultation responses, technical detailing, and material supply and/ or financial constraints.