Ontario Construction Report staff writer
The City of Barrie is inviting input on a plan to shape the future of Minet’s Point Park as it advances early planning work for a major waterfront redevelopment guided by the city’s long-term vision for Kempenfelt Bay.
Feedback collected over the coming weeks will be incorporated into the preferred concept design for the park and support future detailed design and construction phases, the city says.
the goals of the future Minet’s Point Park redevelopment include:
- improving access to the water
- enhancing environmental features
- improving connection to the surrounding neighbourhood
Three individual, coordinated projects are currently underway or planned for the Minet’s Point Park area, to improve infrastructure and renew the public space. These include:
- Improvements to the Whiskey Creek culvert and channel
- The Minet’s Point pump station reconstruction project
- Redevelopment of Minet’s Point Park(current consultation)
The project is part of the 2023 Waterfront Strategic Plan, a 10-year roadmap aimed at enhancing public access, environmental health and recreational opportunities along the city’s waterfront. For Minet’s Point Park specifically, the redevelopment focuses on improving access to the water, enhancing natural and environmental features, and strengthening connections between the park and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Work will also be coordinated with nearby infrastructure projects, including upgrades to the Whiskey Creek culvert and channel, as well as the future reconstruction of the Minet’s Point pump station.
Two preliminary design concepts are available for review and an online survey is open until June 28. Participants will also have a chance to win a prize.
Design one is inspired by the movement of the bay as it merges into the shoreline at Minet’s Point Park. Flowing paving design echoes the gentle rhythm of the water meeting the land. At the heart of the park, a shade pavilion creates a spirited gathering space with unobstructed waterfront views, while a nearby public washroom building supports the comfort of visitors.
A widened wood seating edge wraps around the play area, offering caregivers a comfortable place to watch over children and creating a pleasant space to unwind and take in views of the bay and a pedestrian gravel path runs along the revitalized Whiskey Creek, with integrated seating opportunities.
Design two emphasizes a strong connection to the bay, with a linear layout that naturally draws visitors toward the water’s edge. A threshold of trees along the parking edge leads visitors into an open and welcoming landscape. Simple materials, planting, and filtered light create a calm and comfortable gathering space. Reaching toward the shoreline, a long shade pavilion offers an escape from the sun and is paired with a public washroom facility for convenience.
Timber elements throughout the sandy beach offer places to sit, gather, or prepare for time on the water and a gravel pedestrian path winds alongside the revitalized Whiskey Creek, with integrated seating areas tucked along the route to pause and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
The concepts and survey are available at BuildingBarrie.ca/MinetsPointParkEngagement.