Phase 1 - 2009
Beginning in 2009 the property will be thoroughly cleaned up of debris and garbage. A rough trail following the river will be created. The dead trees will be taken down and chipped on site or removed to the laydown area at the City municipal waste collection depot.
The property will be landscaped using light machinery to remove larger rock, and to move the existing soil in order to level the property and provide proper drainage.. Bollards or large rocks will be installed at entrances to prevent unwanted vehicular traffic.
A parking area will be developed to allow vehicles to remain outside the park area. In the fall of this year the rough trail will be prepared to allow for paving to be done in the spring of 2010. Grass and clover seed will be spread before the snow in hopes of germination taking place early in the spring.
Progress Reports
June
The Clean up days were held on June 6th. and 7th. and were well attended by both club members and community volunteers.
The entire property was cleaned up of garbage, debris and used needles. All dead and unwanted scub trees were removed and placed in piles for chipping or removal by the City. Careful attention was given to ensure that fruit trees and small conifers were not damaged, and that any trees that contained bird nests were not disturbed.
The volunteers from HydroOne forestry services removed "burning" trees (too close to the hydro lines) and using the heavy equipment provided by Hydro One, removed some of the old concrete walls and structure, as well as creating a rough trail next to the river. Large boulders were recovered and moved to provide barriers to vehicular traffic.
September
The required survey was completed in August by ENL engineering. A copy of the survey has been given to Brad Green a local architect in order to put our ideas on paper. Our application to add fill and to consturct structures on the property was approved by the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority. The adjustment to the grade of the trail, necessary to be compliant with handicap accessibilty aspects, and the addition of gravel material for the trail base should be completed this fall.
November
he work on the Current River Park project has been completed for this year. Menei Brothers contracting spent 6 days in November laying down gravel, compacting, and grading the trail in preparation for paving this coming spring. The area was seeded by George Clark and Barry Tabor with a mix of grass and clover seed. Wildflower seed will be planted in the spring.
The City council has agreed to provide asphalt for the Current River park project. Many thanks to councillor Andrew Foulds for his assistance and to Mayor Lynn Peterson for her support. Additional thanks to Mr. Paul Fayrick the manager of Parks and Recreation for his ongoing efforts.
