Smiths Falls council approved the Lower Reach Park redesign plan in principle.
It’s effectively the same as the previous presented design, but the off-leash dog park has moved closer to Old Slys Road and away from the ball diamond.
Councillor Peter McKenna’s happy with the vision.
Councillor Chris McGuire likes how most of the park is laid out but reiterated his previous concerns about the blueprint.
McGuire made similar comments when the initial redesign was approved in May.
Mayor Shawn Pankow said the Old Home Week festivities brought a spotlight to the existing limitations of the park.
The redesign includes new soccer fields, ball diamonds, bocce and pickleball courts.
It’ll also include a central plaza, enhanced trail systems, an upgraded pier for paddling and fishing, as well as a potential swimming beach including accessibility features.
A detailed report on the expected finances of the projected $14.3 million project’s coming in the fall.
Story by Grant Deme