Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation
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Overview
The Town of Aylmer has a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan to guide how we improve parks, trails, programs, and recreation spaces over the next 10 years. Council approved the plan in September 2023, and we’re now starting to put the first steps into action.
What's Changing
We’re focusing first on short-term goals over the next 1 to 3 years, including better online booking for activities, improving park access, and listening to what residents want from their recreation spaces. Staff will be working in phases to get this done in 2024, 2025–2026, and on an ongoing basis.
Why It Matters
Recreation is about more than fun—it helps people stay healthy, connect with their neighbours, and enjoy the outdoors. By investing in trails, playgrounds, and programs for all ages, we can make Aylmer an even better place to live.
How You Can Participate
We’re always looking to hear from residents, whether you use our parks often or just once in a while. Your input helps shape programs and services. There will be chances to join in on surveys, public meetings, and help shape future plans.
What Will Be Done With the Feedback
Your feedback will guide Town staff as they decide what to work on first and how to improve services. We’re also looking at hiring new staff and working with volunteers to deliver more programs, and your ideas will help us make smart choices that reflect the community’s needs.
Overview
The Town of Aylmer has a new Parks and Recreation Master Plan to guide how we improve parks, trails, programs, and recreation spaces over the next 10 years. Council approved the plan in September 2023, and we’re now starting to put the first steps into action.
What's Changing
We’re focusing first on short-term goals over the next 1 to 3 years, including better online booking for activities, improving park access, and listening to what residents want from their recreation spaces. Staff will be working in phases to get this done in 2024, 2025–2026, and on an ongoing basis.
Why It Matters
Recreation is about more than fun—it helps people stay healthy, connect with their neighbours, and enjoy the outdoors. By investing in trails, playgrounds, and programs for all ages, we can make Aylmer an even better place to live.
How You Can Participate
We’re always looking to hear from residents, whether you use our parks often or just once in a while. Your input helps shape programs and services. There will be chances to join in on surveys, public meetings, and help shape future plans.
What Will Be Done With the Feedback
Your feedback will guide Town staff as they decide what to work on first and how to improve services. We’re also looking at hiring new staff and working with volunteers to deliver more programs, and your ideas will help us make smart choices that reflect the community’s needs.
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Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation has finished this stage
The Town of Aylmer worked with Stantec Consulting Ltd. to create a long-term Parks and Recreation Master Plan. This plan outlines how we will grow and improve our parks, programs, and recreation spaces. After gathering ideas from residents and community groups, Council officially approved the plan in 2023.
Hiring a Community Programming Assistant
Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation has finished this stage
To support more recreation programs in the community, Council approved the hiring of a part-time staff member. This new role helps create and run programs, engage participants, talk with users, and will be available during evenings and weekends to offer programming.
Seniors Community Grant 2024-2025
Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation has finished this stage
The Town received funding from the Ministry for Seniors and Accessibility to offer programs for older adults. This included monthly Connection Club events at the East Elgin Community Complex and Lunch and Learns on topics like fraud prevention, wellness, and nutrition.
Recreation Survey - Fall 2024
Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation has finished this stage
Staff created a survey to ask residents about the types of recreation programs they would like to see. The feedback helps shape future program planning and supports the goals of the master plan.
School Partnership with EESS
Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation has finished this stage
The Town is working with East Elgin Secondary School to share spaces and equipment. A pilot agreement is being developed so students and the community can both benefit from more recreation options.
Parks Maintenance and Beautification Standard (2025)
Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation has finished this stage
In 2025, Town Council approved a plan to help keep our parks clean, safe, and beautiful. This standard sets clear guidelines for how often parks are maintained and how we take care of things like grass, trees, gardens, and park features. It helps make sure all parks are looked after in the same way.
Dog Park Public Consultation - Spring 2025
Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation has finished this stage
The Town explored locations for an off-leash dog park at the request of Council. A public survey closed in April, and results will be presented to Council on May 7 to help guide next steps and a final decision.
Aylmer Minor Ball Improvements
Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation is currently at this stage
The Town and the Aylmer Minor Ball Association are teaming up to improve the ball diamonds. Work includes fixing fences, dugouts, and infields. These upgrades will help create a better space for local ball programs.
New Parks and Recreation Software
this is an upcoming stage for Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation
To make it easier to book programs, rent spaces, and register online, the Town has purchased new software. This system will also help staff track participation, manage memberships, and reduce paperwork. It’s all about making the recreation experience smoother and more modern.
Next Steps
this is an upcoming stage for Shaping Aylmer's Parks & Recreation: Master Plan Implementation
The Town will continue to move forward with other short- and mid-term priorities in the Master Plan. Updates will be shared with the community as projects progress, with a focus on accessibility, equity, partnerships, and future planning.