There were three reports presented to Trent Lakes Council this week dealing with recomendations of the Open Spaces Master Plan (OSMP).
Recreation and Facilities Director Dylan Cosh presented reports on Trail Maintenance Best Practices, Public Washrooms and Trail Design and Construction.
The OSMP made recomendations in all three areas and was approved by council in March 2023. It was created by consulting firm thinc design.
The plan includes 85 recomendations to create a municipal connected open space trail network and identifies potential improvements to parks, trails, beaches and boat launches.
Cosh said staff reviewed a number of trails maintenance documents from other municipalities and organizations and concluded that our current Recreation Maintenance Police aligns well with these documents.
“Staff believe that the level of detail provided in the Recreation Maintenance Policy provides an excellent balance between giving the public a good understanding of what is to be expected on a given trail, while balancing some operation freedom by not over-specifying maintenance procedures,” he said.
The OSMP recommended Trent Lakes implement a Public Washroom Strategy and that all parks and beaches throughout Trent Lakes should continue to provide washrooms during summer seasons and, if possible, during shoulder seasons.
The municipality currently provides public washrooms at ten locations including Sandy Lake Beach, White’s Beach, Ode’Naang Park, at the Buckhorn Sports Complex and at the Cavendish Rink.
Cosh said staff are recommending improving washrooms in a phased approach. In 2025 they will focus on improving inspection protocols and servicing during peak times, developing education materials and increasing public awareness of the locations.
In 2026 there will be a pilot program for different styles of upgraded washrooms and looks.
From 2026 to 2030 the municipality will conduct feasibility studies for permanent washroom facilities at high traffic sites, he added.
The third strategy Cosh presented to council was the Trails Design and Construction Strategy which will guide staff to begin a planning process for new trails.
“These guidelines aim to ensure trails are safe, accessible, environmentally sustainable, and serve the diverse needs of the community, including recreational users, active transportation participants, and nature enthusiasts, “ the report states. “ By aligning with best practices and industry benchmarks, this document supports the development of a high quality trail network that promotes health, wellness, connectivity, and tourism within the Municipality.”
Council received the reports and approved the staff recomendations for all three strategies.
