City working on water issues in Polson Park

Aug 18, 2020 | 12:19 PM

Ongoing issues with standing water and high groundwater levels mean the water park and playground in Polson Park remain closed to the public.

The facilities have been off-limits since late June due to the grassy areas being saturated by high water levels.

The park will be closed to vehicle traffic until further notice to allow for construction.

“Starting today (Aug. 18), there will be construction happening around the playground, spray park and public washrooms. The park remains open to pedestrians and cyclists, however, they are asked to practice caution and pay close attention to the worksite, as equipment and operators will be moving throughout the park,” said a city news release.

“Over the last several weeks, park operators have attempted to lower the groundwater levels by emptying the duck pond and Japanese garden pond more frequently and for longer periods of time. Unfortunately, the water has not disappeared and the grassy areas remain saturated,” the news release said.

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“We know our residents and visitors love using the playground and spray park, especially on our hot summer days, but public safety is our top priority,” Kendra Kryszak, manager, parks and public spaces said. “Before we can reopen the spaces, the area must be clear of standing water, and our mowers need to be able to cut the grass properly.”

The two large ponds and the Japanese garden pond will be lowered again as part of the maintenance work. The city will reopen the park to traffic when it is safe to do so and will provide updates as they become available.

Public washrooms at the Pavilion remain open for use.

by Pete McIntyre

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