Tillsonburg invests in parks and new playground equipment

Looking to get out and enjoy some family time? The Town of Tillsonburg is the place to be. The Town has now completed $340,000 in park and playground improvements, including opening a brand new park in the Northcrest neighbourhood.

The park, located off Martin Street, is an exciting addition for residents of the Town’s north end, and features a three bay swing set with two belts, two toddler swings and an intergenerational face-to-face swing. Other features include a large net climbing unit, slide and interactive play area for children up to 12 years old.

“Tillsonburg strives to offer all residents the amenities, services and attractions they require to enjoy balanced lifestyles,” says Mayor Deb Gilvesy. “We know having safe spaces for children to play and residents to relax is important for everyone’s well-being.”

CAO Kyle Pratt echoes that sentiment.

“Investing in outdoor spaces is an important component of the Town’s Community Strategic Plan,” he says. “As the community grows, it’s important to add new recreational amenities as well, while continuing to improve our existing assets.”

In the downtown core, Library Park (located at the corner of Bidwell Street and Washington Grand Avenue) received $137,600 in updates, including a new interactive play structure with shade sails. Other additions to the space include a rubberized surface that’s perfect for preschoolers with ride-on toys, and an open area that can be utilized by Oxford County Library for creative outdoor programming.

Meanwhile, Elliott Fairbairn Park, located at 4 Earle Street, also received a much-needed makeover. A new interactive play structure has been installed featuring a slide, climber and interactive panels. A two bay swing set has also been added with an intergenerational face-to-face swing.

“Any time we’re able to add or upgrade facilities, it’s a win for the entire community,” says Gilvesy. “It’s been a very busy construction season for the Town with the overhaul of the Lake Lisgar Waterpark bathhouse, and of course, the ongoing renovation of the aquatics wing at the Tillsonburg Community Centre.”

“We’re pretty excited about all the changes,” says Andrea Greenway, acting director of Recreation, Culture and Parks. “We know there have been some inconveniences to residents along the way, but we so appreciate everyone’s patience and support.”

To learn more about recreational amenities in the Town of Tillsonburg, visit www.tillsonburg.ca/recreation.

Tillsonburg Town Council visits Elliott Fairbairn Park. (Left to right: Councillor Chris Rosehart, Councillor Pete Luciani, Councillor Chris Parker, Mayor Deb Gilvesy, CAO Kyle Pratt, Councillor Bob Parsons)

Tillsonburg Town Council visits the new park in Northcrest subdivision. (Left to right: Councillor Chris Rosehart, CAO Kyle Pratt, Mayor Deb Gilvesy, Councillor Chris Parker, Councillor Pete Luciani, Councillor  Councillor Bob Parsons)

Mayor Deb Gilvesy and Councillor Chris Parker try out playground equipment in Elliott Fairbairn Park.