Edgerts Park, Playground Replacement Project
The Cause
Nestled in the heart of Calgary, the neighbourhood of North Haven is known for its close-knit community, picturesque surroundings, and commitment to active living. As a vibrant area, North Haven has long been a haven for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and community-minded individuals. In line with this spirit, the North Haven Community Association, in partnership with the Calgary Parks Foundation, is excited to announce an initiative to rejuvenate our local playground. This project aims to enhance the quality of life for residents by promoting active living, inclusivity, and community engagement.
The new playground will serve as a hub for physical activity, encouraging children and families to engage in outdoor play. With a variety of equipment designed to cater to different age groups, the playground will offer something for everyone. From toddler swings to climbing structures for older children, the playground will be a dynamic space where kids can develop their physical skills, socialize, and simply enjoy being active in a safe environment.
The revitalized playground will be a centrepiece of North Haven, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among residents. It will not only serve the immediate neighbourhood but also attract families from surrounding areas, contributing to a vibrant, bustling community space. By providing a well-designed playground, we are investing in the health and well-being of our children, encouraging them to lead active, healthy lifestyles from a young age.
Moreover, the playground will be more than just a play area; it will be a place where community members can gather, celebrate, and build lasting relationships. Whether it’s parents bonding over play-dates or community groups organising events, the playground will strengthen the social fabric of North Haven and surrounding communities.
Inclusivity is at the forefront of our planning process. To ensure the playground meets the needs of all children, we are conducting a comprehensive community survey. This survey aims to gather information on the ages of children who will be using the space and other amenities that residents would like to see (benches, picnic tables, bike racks). By listening to the voices of our community, we aim to create a playground that is accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of age or ability.
Who Will it Benefit?
To date, the community of Upper North Haven has 110 kids under the age 14 with zero playgrounds, which is under-served by 1 playground according to the City of Calgary. The community of North Haven has 410 under the age of 14 with 2 playgrounds. The community of Thorncliffe has 1460 kids under the age of 14 with 4 playgrounds, which is under-served by 3 playgrounds according to the City of Calgary. The new playground is situated between the communities of Upper North Haven, North Haven, and Thorncliffe, and easily accessible by others.
The City of Calgary's Asset Rating Scale that runs from 1 (Excellent) to 5 (Very Poor), the current playground at Egert's Park is rated a 4 (Poor).
The new playground will feature inclusive, age-appropriate equipment designed to cater to various developmental stages and abilities. This ensures that children from toddlers to pre-teens, can play, learn, and interact in a safe environment.
A well-designed playground provides a safe and engaging space for children, giving parents and caregivers peace of mind. Improved seating areas, shade structures, and accessibility features will create a comfortable environment for supervision and socializing.
Nearby schools, daycare centers, and after-school programs can use the playground for physical education, outdoor learning, and recreational activities, promoting physical fitness and social development.
By promoting physical activity, outdoor play, and social interaction, the new playground aligns with public health goals, encouraging active lifestyles and reducing screen time for children.