10-Year Plan Supports an Active, Healthy and Culturally Vibrant City

RICHMOND HILL – Earlier today, Richmond Hill Council unanimously endorsed a combined Recreation and Culture Plan to guide the delivery of recreation and culture facilities and services to the year 2032. 

The plan focuses on indoor recreation facilities, recreation and culture programs, and cultural opportunities. Feedback collected over the past two years from residents, sports leagues, community groups, artists and arts and cultural organizations helped identify key findings and themes for the plan. 

Some of the recreation priorities planned for the coming years include: 

• Developing a “Try It” pass to allow residents a range of drop-in choices at one harmonized fee
• Working to meet increased demand for indoor tennis and pickleball
• Adding youth and adults 55+ programming space within current and future community centres
• Identifying programming and service needs for the future North Leslie Community Centre

On the cultural side, future priorities include: 

• Re-instating the Cultural Leadership Council to support the implementation of the Recreation and Culture Plan
• Looking at ways to create cultural spaces in existing and new facilities (e.g. pop up visual art gallery)
• Fostering and maintaining cultural districts (including the Downtown area)
• Updating the Festival and Events Strategy to better reflect the changing needs of the community
• Examining partnership opportunities to create a business/arts mentorship program

For more information and to view the Recreation and Culture Plan, visit RichmondHill.ca/RecandCulturePlan. 

Quotes

“Richmond Hill has so much to offer residents and visitors – from incredible destination parks and unique features like our skate trail and boardwalk, to a wonderful performing arts centre and award-winning festivals and events. As the city continues to grow, we want to make sure our recreation and culture amenities continue to meet the needs and desires of our community. This plan sets the stage over the next 10 years, bringing more opportunities to enjoy a vibrant cultural scene and greater social connection.”

- David West, Mayor