Riverside Park Fencing in Penticton: Important Changes Headed Back to Committee for Community Input!

Penticton is looking to make Riverside Park a safer space for everyone, including our furry friends. The parks and recreation committee is brainstorming fencing designs to create a safe off-leash area near the skate park. This site tried a leash-optional program in 2024, and it got mixed reactions.

One significant concern arose about the nearby paths along the River Channel. These paths are popular with pedestrians and cyclists, and some people felt uneasy with dogs running about. Councillor Campbell Watt highlighted this issue during a recent council meeting. He pointed out that while dogs can be friendly, they can also make some folks uncomfortable. "My priority is to make sure everyone feels safe," he said.

Back in January, the council asked for fencing proposals for Riverside Park. They also approved the extension of the leash-optional program to three other parks and agreed to expand the fenced area for dogs at Okanagan Park. The staff report recommended keeping the leash-optional access at Riverside and the other parks too.

The council voted 4-1 to pass the fencing options to the parks and rec committee for further discussion. Councilor Isaac Gilbert, the only dissenting voice, wanted a clearer direction on whether the park should remain open or be closed off.

Current plans include examining fencing options, ranging from low wooden fences to more restrictive metal ones. "We need to see if fencing is a viable option," said Councillor Watt, emphasizing that if fencing isn’t possible, they should not abandon the idea of a non-leash area.

Once the committee reviews the fencing options, they’ll present their recommendations back to the council for a final decision. If the council greenlights the fencing, they’ve got a budget of $50,000 originally set for Dartmouth Park that could be redirected to Riverside.

As cities across Canada face similar challenges balancing dog parks and public safety, Penticton’s debate reflects wider trends. Many municipalities are exploring off-leash areas but are grappling with community concerns about safety. Recent studies have shown that nearly 60% of pet owners support off-leash spaces when safety measures are in place.

In conclusion, the future of Riverside Park depends on thoughtful dialogue between dog owners and the wider community. Finding that balance is crucial for everyone to enjoy the outdoors safely. For more insights into municipal park policies, you can check out the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association.

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