Midland Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan.

The Town of Midland is updating its guidance for parks, trails and recreation. The last parks and trails plan dates from 2018 (also completed by thinc design) and the last recreation plan from 1993. thinc design is leading the new Parks, Trails and Recreation Master Plan with Mehak, Kelly & Associates, with Oraclepoll Research running the telephone survey.

Midland is a town of about 19,000 on the shores of Georgian Bay, with 321 acres of community parkland, a marina, a public boat launch, a recreation centre and about 18 km of paved and natural trails, including 11 km of the Trans Canada Trail. The Plan looks at how these spaces, and the programs run in them, can best serve residents and the many visitors and neighbouring communities who use them. It focuses on actions for the next 10 years within a longer-term vision.

Engagement was a priority from the start. Between March and May 2026 the team interviewed more than 25 Council and staff members, held more than 40 stakeholder conversations and focus groups, surveyed 18 user groups, hosted an open house, and gathered 263 online survey responses and 300 responses to a random household telephone survey. A project web page drew more than 500 visits. The Consultation Summary Report, completed in June 2026, reports back what was heard, from trail connections and winter trail access to gym space, pickleball and more drop-in activities for adults.

The work now includes an assessment of the Town's parks, trails and facilities, a review of service delivery and partnerships, and an implementation strategy that sets priorities, timing and costs. A first draft went to the Town in August 2026 and is being refined with staff. The final Plan is expected in early 2027.