Fitness Equipment - Sandwell Green Park

June 2023 Project Update

The public consultation has closed with an overwhelming majority or respondents indicating a preference for Option 2. Option 2 is series of 4 stations spread out the length of the east-end of the park. Further updates will be provided on this page as construction details are available.

Summary of comments received and responses

1. Several comments expressed preference for Option 2 being the 4-station design with the comment that it reduces concern for equipment sharing or crowding.
2. Overall preference was expressed for the type of equipment provided in Option 2.
3. It was asked if it is possible to mix and match the equipment from the two designs as not all pieces of fitness equipment are available from all manufacturers. The request for the addition of parallel bars will be explored.
4. One responded expressed a need for shade and the suggestion of “shade sails”. Shade sails are not within scope of the project, however this location in the park was chosen, in part, for the shade provided by the existing trees. The trees will be protected during construction.
5. There was concern that the proposed location may interfere with community events: The large park will continue to be able to accommodate community events. Several comments indicated that the layout was good for preserving the greenspace of the park.
6. There was one suggestion to locate equipment elsewhere in the park. Locating the equipment elsewhere was considered, however that was deemed to be significantly more expensive while satisfying AODA accessibility requirements. The accessible surfacing of the equipment stations needs to be drained to a stormwater catch basin. Locating the fitness stations near the existing catch basin on the east end of the park is the most cost-effective option. Additionally, each station is required to be on an accessible route and requires an entry ramp constructed of asphalt or concrete. Thus, the fitness stations are best located adjacent to the existing asphalt pathway. Additional asphalt works are outside the scope of the project.

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May 2023

The City of Ottawa would like to install Fitness Equipment in Sandwell Green Park, located in Ward 4 - Kanata North. Two different concepts have been conceived for the project. Both would be located on an accessible pathway and include a new sitting bench and a bike rack. However, they differ in the type of equipment and the configuration. The site was chosen for its proximity the former site of fitness stations, proximity to a pathway network and shade.

Option 1 involves 6 pieces of equipment’s grouped together in a gym, or obstacle challenge. This includes: a climbing rope, vault bars, parallel bars, step benches, hurdles, and a “bamboo jungle” climber, all installed on an engineered wood fiber surface. See the Equipment Design Options, Option 1, located in the tab to the right, for a concept drawing.

Option 2 involves 8 pieces of equipment arranged at 4 stations along an accessible path. The stations include pull-up and push-up bars, plyometric steps, a plank jump, a core station (sit up bench/hyper-extension bench) and a knee lift /stepper station, all installed on an engineered wood fiber surface. See in the Equipment Design Options, Option 2 (scroll down), located in the tab to the right, for a concept drawing.

A survey is available below where you can advise of your preference and provide any other comments that might be useful prior to the project moving into a detailed design of the chosen concept.

Please share this consultation with your community and with your friends!