Vernon residents had the chance to give feedback on the revised concept plan for the proposed Kin Race Track Athletic Park and it was well-received.
Two-thirds of respondents agree or somewhat agree that the concept plan meets the needs of themself and their family.
The plan includes a skate park, off-leash dog park, two turf fields, two baseball diamonds, an outdoor spray park, and an active living centre.
The turf fields, said Coun. Kari Gares, are not just for soccer as some people have written on social media.
“These are artificial turf fields that will serve multiple purposes, whether it be soccer, football, field lacrosse, rugby, grass hockey, you name it,” she said. “It’s going to allow a multi-use service for many groups.”
The public submitted 696 comments on the plan and a report to council states about half of the comments support the design.
More than 200 respondents felt other amenities should be considered like a bike skills park, volleyball dome, gymnastics facility, an outdoor pool, and more.
Many comments came in from the other side, with some saying there needs to be more amenities free and accessible to families, the plan is too big, and it takes away from the natural beauty in the area.
Twenty-five respondents expressed concern about upfront costs.
Council, meanwhile, fully supported the concept plan for Kin Race Track, directing staff to continue with geotechnical, environmental, archaeological and traffic impact assessments.
Staff has also been asked to develop a project phasing plan and funding strategy following the assessments.
The original cost of the facility was ballparked at $50 million though that is expected to go higher. Gares said the city would be applying for any funding source to help alleviate the potential impact on a taxpayers’ increase.
This story was updated Tuesday, June 14, at 4:25 p.m.
READ MORE: Kin Race Track site survey closing May 23
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