Woodbine Park makes friends

It’s official: the park lovers of the former racetrack have formed a group. Say hello to Friends of Woodbine Park (FoWP).

Since February 2012, three community meetings have been held in venues near the park. Presenters from the city’s Parks department and other park advocacy groups as well as our own local historian spoke of the positive impact of community engagement. We asked and answered questions, brainstormed on what would make the park a community destination, and sketched ideas. At our April session, we got down to some creative business and formed several work groups to define and pursue specific visions. These are an Adopt-A-Tree program to help water new saplings; an adventure playground for children; events and programming for adults and family activities; a garden or place to sit, meet, and socialize; and a gateway entrance, for an improved visual for the park and neighbourhood approach.

Individual coordinators will hold smaller meetings to plan in more detail including design ideas, plants, hardscaping, funding, maintenance and permits. All plans are coordinated with the Parks department, which is being supportive and helpful, and its engagement and approval is key.

Upcoming events include the 55 Division Police community barbecue in the park on May 23, where you can find out more and register to Adopt-A-Tree In late June there will be a Tea In The Park fundraiser, including a competition for best Victorian-era costumes.

The next FoWP meeting is on Thursday, May 24, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the East End Community Health Centre, 1619 Queen St. E. The meeting is being held to provide updates and decide on the group’s structure and decision-making process. For information or to join the group, e-mail us at greeningward32@gmail.com.