Official Community Plan

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MEETING OUR GOALS THROUGH PARKS AND RECREATION

The parks, trails and recreational system of programs and indoor and outdoor facilities is at its heart an opportunity for connectivity, whether that be to each other, the natural world, K’ómoks First Nation history and practices, in how we get around, or through the ecosystems across the city and region. Providing equitable access to these green and public places will support physical and mental well-being for residents of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Parks and recreation are a strategic community asset through which to welcome in and practice with the wider community the core directions of the OCP: reconciliation, climate action, equity, and community well-being. Advancing the goals of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan will help bring to life the goals of the OCP, including providing more space for nature as well as more opportunity for people to spend time in it. A strong local recreational spirit, and a climate that allows for year-round outdoor activities means that both indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and programs will continue to be an essential part of Courtenay’s identity and future.

Connecting these public recreational spaces through trails and greenways will also advance the goal of more functional transportation choices throughout the city. By seamlessly connecting both the road and greenway network, these linear corridors will be an important – and delightful – transportation network for a low-carbon future: green, convenient, accessible, affordable, active and beautiful ways to travel through and across neighbourhoods on foot and an on wheels. Parks and greenways also provide a significant contribution to Courtenay’s wider green infrastructure network that includes Environmentally Sensitive Areas , the urban forest, and engineered rain gardens and wetlands. Accessible spaces within walking distance for social connection and play, retreating into nature, and incorporating green infrastructure will be essential as the city and neighbourhoods grow and intensify. Inherently diverse, parks and recreational facilities provide for distinctive place making and place keeping opportunities that make Courtenay special.

City of Courtenay Official Community Plan