Garfield Park - Proposed Changes to Fencing and Pedestrian Gates

December 2, 2024:

Option 2 proposed to divide the park north/south approximately 50/50. The line painted in orange across the park last week represents this option. There was additional discussion as to whether following the berm in the middle of the park provided more usable space on both sides while still splitting the park approximately 50/50. This possibility was painted in white. This option also removes the catch basin covers from the off-leash dog section.

The City is proceeding with the option painted in white and the contractor is hoping to complete the fencing work this year (weather permitting).

November 8, 2024:

Thank you again to everyone who participated in the public consultation. From the options presented, Option 2 was preferred and the City will move ahead with its implementation as it best represents a shared opportunity for the space.

Over the last 18 months, it has become clear that a safely designed shared space is needed. The initial installation process, while intended to meet some local needs, did not openly consult on the design so that it might consider the needs of others who may or may not want to be approached by dogs running loose. Per Option 2 the northern portion of the park will be fenced off so that dogs may be permitted off leash, and the southern portion of the park will remain open space with a Dogs On Leash designation. Access to Garfield Park will remain open on both the east and west frontages (south portion) and property line fences between the park and residential neighbours will remain.

The project website was viewed 498 times with 159 surveys completed. 39 participants (24.5%) voted for Option 1 (the park remains as is) and 120 participants (75.5%) voted for Option 2 (the park will be divided to create two equal-sized spaces). In addition, several emails and calls were received which contributed to the overall feedback.

An update regarding the fence reconfiguration timeline will be posted to Engage Ottawa when available. Note: crews have been to site already for measurements and they now await supply of materials.

With thanks for everyone’s participation from the Parks and Facilities Planning team.

October 10, 2024:

Thank you to everyone who completed the survey and / or provided comments directly through other channels. All comments received will be reviewed and assessed to inform decisions on any future changes to Garfield Park.

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.