Garfield Park - Proposed Changes to Fencing and Pedestrian Gates

September 24, 2024:

City of Ottawa staff want to hear from you about the future of Garfield Park. In the spring of 2023, pedestrian gates and additional fencing were added to the perimeter of the park to enclose the space. Since this time, residents have shared concerns about how the installation of the gates has made the park a less welcoming space for families, and those passing through to reach other destinations.

Staff are hoping to find a solution that will ensure all park users feel welcome, while still preserving the off-leash dog enclosure that means so much to people. We are gathering community feedback as a step that was missed when the park was redesigned.

The options presented below are also available in the document library on the right. Please take a moment to provide your feedback by voting for one of the following options:

Option 1: The park remains as is. Fencing will remain along the perimeter of the park, but pedestrian gates will not be installed. Dogs will be permitted off-leash.

Option 2: The park will be divided to create two equal-sized spaces. In the northern portion of the park (adjacent to the highway), dogs will be permitted, off-leash. This area will be fenced and gated. A multi-use space will be located to the south. Gates will be removed, creating barrier-free access to the park which will align with existing desire lines. Dogs will be permitted on-leash within this area.

The survey will close on October 10, 2024. Please be sure to submit your feedback prior to this date.