Baird Park Play Structure Renewal to Begin in 2027 to Allow for Further Assessments
- Ward 5 Staff
- 51 minutes ago
- 2 min read
During soil testing in late 2025, the City found that some deeper soil in Baird Park contains higher levels of metals and other materials. These results suggest that older fill may have been used in parts of the park many years ago. Because of this, the City needs to complete more detailed environmental studies across the entire park in 2026.
The park remains safe to use.
Ottawa Public Health has confirmed that everyday park activities do not bring people into contact with the deeper soil where these materials were found. The sand under the play structure is clean, and the swing set area already has a protective layer that covers the soil.
How This Affects the Project
• Environmental assessments will take place through 2026.
• Design and construction for the new play structure are expected to begin in 2027.
Why More Testing Is Needed
These environmental studies will help the City understand how much of the park contains older fill and whether any parts need risk management or clean up. This careful work is important to make sure the park stays safe now and during future construction.
What the City Is Doing
The City will:
• Investigate soil conditions across the whole park
• Plan next steps, if any areas need special treatment
• Keep the community informed as new information becomes available
We understand that delays are frustrating, especially for families looking forward to new play equipment. Our goal is to complete this work properly and safely so that the renewed play structure can serve the community for many years.
Read more at the link below:
If you have a question about this or any other Ward or City issue, just send an email to Clarke.Kelly@Ottawa.ca or call our office at 613-580-2475.
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