Tay Township retained thinc design and Mehak, Kelly & Associates to develop a Parks and Recreation Master Plan to guide municipal parks, recreation operations, and infrastructure over a 20-year term to 2045.
The Plan prioritizes upgrading current infrastructure rather than constructing new facilities that are financially unsustainable for the population size. Key recommendations include renovating the Oakwood Community Centre to better support gym and fitness programs and upgrading the Port McNicoll Community Centre to focus on community gatherings and social events. The Plan also identifies a strong community interest in emerging sports, recommending the development of dedicated outdoor pickleball courts and improved community access to local school gymnasiums.
The Plan emphasizes enhancing accessibility across all parks and promoting universal design principles. Improvements for existing spaces include adding washrooms, increasing tree canopy and shade structures, installing mobility mats at beaches, and introducing outdoor fitness equipment.
The Township relies on indirect service providers like the Public Library and local volunteer Recreation Committees for the delivery of recreational programs and community events. To meet the community’s desire for more diverse offerings, the Plan recommends piloting new outdoor activities such as “Art in the Park,” expanding the library’s equipment lending program to include sports gear, and organizing community-driven events like markets and festivals.
Ultimately, the Master Plan provides a phased, actionable roadmap containing 81 specific recommendations to foster a vibrant and active community over the next two decades.
