CITY OF CHILLIWACK | 2024 Annual Report 28 29 2024 Annual Report | CITY OF CHILLIWACK STRATEGIC GOAL #4: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 COMMUNITY CULTURE Foster community spirit by attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, community organizations and public art initiatives. Funded a large number of block parties and neighbourhood gatherings through the Celebration and Activity Grant Program. The Chilliwack Public Art Advisory Committee continued to support public art initiatives. Community Development Initiatives policy funded a number of community non-profit service providers. PARKS AND TRAILS Provide and enhance quality parks and recreational opportunities. Completed a new multi-use gaming area (MUGA) at Jinkerson Park. Installed accessible rubber surface in Salish Park playground. Completed construction on three new parks: Weeden, Webb and MacSwan. Continued work with Fraser Valley Regional District to enhance regional connections in Chilliwack. Installed a new play structure at Townsend Park, featuring accessible play features for children ages 2-5. Replacement of artificial turf at Field A at Townsend Park. Installed five rest stops along the Coast to Canyon route. Replaced the bridge at Bridlewood Natural Area as part of the Promontory Trail Network. Completed expansion for No. 3 Road parking. Completed new parking lot at Vedder Canal, at the west end of Yale Road. STRATEGIC GOAL #4 CONTINUED: STRONG NEIGHBOURHOODS Support accessibility, inclusion, diversity and truth and reconciliation. Fostering community spirit, attracting community events and supporting cultural groups, while providing high-quality parks and recreational opportunities. HOW WE WILL GET THERE WHAT WE ACHIEVED IN 2024 INCLUSIVENESS Identify and support projects and programs that nurture accessibility, inclusion and diversity. Continued implementation of the Mayor’s Task Force on Inclusiveness, Diversity and Accessibility Action Plan. The Accessibility and Inclusion Advisory Committee worked on the Community Accessibility Plan and conducted community engagement. The Landing Leisure Centre achieved Gold Certification for accessibility through the Rick Hansen Foundation. Replaced Canada Day fireworks with a drone show to reduce the impact of fireworks on those suffering from neurodivergence. Updated Sardis Park playground with accessible play features for children ages 2-5, including an accessible swing, rubber surfacing, ramped entry, and a sun canopy. Installed accessible fitness equipment at Webb Avenue Park. Supported Pink Shirt Day. Continued to utilize alternative text on social media to make images more accessible. Provided funding for inclusive events through Community Development Initiatives Funding and the Neighbourhood Grant Program. Continued to make accessible sidewalk and crosswalk improvements, including the installation of curb letdowns and five new audible crosswalks. Playground accessibility improvements were included within the 10-year Comprehensive Municipal Plan. Installation of ADA compliant water fountains at Chilliwack Cultural Centre and Cheam Leisure Centre. Purchased new water wheelchairs for Landing Leisure Centre. Continued to work with Rick Hansen Foundation to update interior and exterior signage and amenities to improve accessibility at recreational properties. Introduced Sensory Sensitive Friendly Skates, for people who are neurodivergent, at the Coliseum and Sardis Sports Complex. Installed a new accessible elevator at the Evergreen Hall for patrons to use the Cheam Room stage. Installed a new accessible elevator at the Landing Sports Centre for patrons to reach the second-floor loft. Two Recreation staff members obtained an Access and Inclusion Certificate through the Rick Hansen Foundation.
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