The new slo-pitch fields under construction at Nunns Creek Park should be open for the first pitch next season.
Grant Parker, the city’s director of operations, says the improvement project is aimed at making the park a hub for slo-pitch tournaments and events, with four new fields under construction. It will also be able to host other sports.
“It will be multipurpose, meaning there will also be the ability to have soccer or rugby play on a couple of the fields,” he said.
He said the windbreak of poplar trees on the west side had to be cut down for several reasons, mainly because their roots already extend into the fields and will likely cause irregularities and damage to the new ones over time. Poplars also consume a lot of water, which would leave the new fields unevenly watered and prone to drought.
Parker said the new configuration will include some means of providing shade for spectators, and added the logger sports section of the park will also be revitalized for events.
The forests around Nunns Creek Park have been used for homeless camping sites for years, but problems in the woods and park have lessened since the recovery village on Homewood Road was built. Grant doesn’t expect any issues that would require additional fencing, and said bylaw officers continue to patrol the area regularly.
The total budget for the park revitalization is $6.5 million.
The city is currently working on preparing the site; a contractor will be hired afterwards to do the construction over the summer.
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