R.V. Burgess Park Update

After several successful community consultation meetings, we are moving forward with our comprehensive plan to revitalize R.V. Burgess Park!
 
In 2017, City staff began working on a renovation plan for R.V. Burgess Park to improve the existing playground and pathways. While the park was badly in need of upgrades, Councillor Robinson heard from the community that the original plan was not enough to adequately address the neighbourhood's needs.
 
As the sole public park servicing a large community that is home to many school-age children, R.V. Burgess is an important gathering space for the entire Thorncliffe Park neighbourhood. This summer, Councillor Robinson significantly expanded the scope of the project by allocating additional funding that nearly doubled the original budget. Instead of just replacing the existing playground, we are now transforming the park and adding new play equipment to accommodate the growing youth population.
 
The new design includes separated junior and senior play structures, adult fitness equipment, a water bottle filling station, natural play features, new planted areas, and more seating options. At the Councillor's request, staff are also taking steps to preserve all 51 trees on-site and conducting a flood management assessment to address drainage issues in the park.

Councillor Robinson walking through R.V. Burgess after a working group meeting, July 2019

Councillor Robinson's staff attended another working group meeting, January 2020

At the January working group meeting, Councillor Robinson's team worked with the Thorncliffe Park community and senior City staff to further refine the project. With the community's support, we are now finalizing the park design and determining construction timeline estimates.
 
In the interim, staff are developing a plan to enhance the Leaside Park facilities to accommodate local residents while R.V. Burgess Park is under construction.