Community invited to review plans for Community Park on former Bowmanville Zoo lands

Clarington, Ontario – Clarington is seeking public feedback on a proposed design for a 34-acre Community Park on the former lands of the Bowmanville Zoo, located just north of Highway 2 in east Bowmanville. The Municipality of Clarington is calling on the community to help inform an inspiring vision for a signature park that honours the natural and cultural heritage of this beloved property.

This consultation builds on previous efforts by Valleys 2000, who hired a design firm to create an initial plan and brought together community members, staff and local businesses to provide input on the plan. Also, during public consultations for the Parks, Culture and Recreation Master Plan, staff and Council heard from community members about their priorities for the Zoo Lands. This next phase of consultation represents a third round of public input into this important community project.

“The Zoo Lands hold a special place in all of our hearts here in Clarington,” said Mayor Adrian Foster. “We have a unique opportunity to create an incredible public space here. We are working with the community to refine the design vision for this park. Thanks to our partners at Valleys 2000, Clarington Council is excited to move forward in creating a park that will honour the history of the lands, protect the natural environment, expand Bowmanville’s trail system, and create new cultural and community spaces for everyone to enjoy.”

People are invited to visit www.clarington.net/BowmanvillePark to review the current design vision, join the conversation and share feedback about design features using an interactive mapping tool.

There will also be two in-person Public Information Centres taking place in Council Chambers at the Municipal Administrative Centre, 40 Temperance Street, Bowmanville. Drop by to see the design concept, talk to project staff and weigh in on the vision:

• Tuesday, April 16, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, April 16, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

An interactive map is available at www.clarington.net/BowmanvillePark.

“A unique and historical space deserves a unique—even audacious—plan,” said Ward 2 Councillor Lloyd Rang, who is helping to lead the planning process. “Thanks to Valleys 2000 and Municipal staff for bringing members of the community together to help develop this proposal for a signature park in the heart of Bowmanville. We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance here to create Clarington's own version of New York City’s Central Park—a space that includes natural features and cultural attractions we don't have anywhere else in Clarington. I encourage everyone to continue to weigh in and dream big.”

“As we are well into the design process for this exciting park opportunity, Valleys 2000 looks forward to the community’s response to the proposal,” said Ron Strike, President, Valleys 2000. “We’re keen to continue to work with the Municipality of Clarington to advance plans for this valued public space.”

Learn more, share your feedback and subscribe to project updates at www.clarington.net/BowmanvillePark.