Construction of the Moya Johnson Parkette, named after the late Halton Hills councillor, has begun.
The Town's landscape architect Jude Gaboury says most of the project will be completed sometime this fall. He also expects a "formal grand opening event will take place in the spring of 2024. This will allow all of the new planting and seeding time to establish."
Construction began this month, with the Town's final design including the usual playground fare of a slide, places to climb and a saucer swing.
But there are also some rather unique design choices as well. A talk tube will allow kids from the lower level to converse with kids on the upper level, similar to tin cans on a string.
A rock wall challenge is available for some of the more ambitious children. For the musical playground patrons, the included bongo drums will give them the outlet they need.
Accompanying grownups will be delighted to know that they can keep an eye on their kids from sheltered seating. Lounge-style chairs will give visitors more options for where to sit, and bollard lighting will light the way in case visitors stay later.
A berm will create a buffer with native plants and armour stone between the parkette and McNabb Street. A similar setback will be created along Silver Creek to the north of the property.
The space was originally going to be called the Mill Street Parkette, but after Johnson announced her retirement due to health reasons last year, council passed a resolution to rename the future play area after her.
Johnson died in February of this year. At the time, Mayor Ann Lawlor called her a "thoughtful and insightful leader who could get results" and someone who is "passionate about helping people."
