A new washroom is set construction by the fall and provide additional services for beach goers and park users in Parksville. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Ian Holmes

Park enhancement

Additional washroom coming to Parksville Community Park

Jul 7, 2023 | 6:08 AM

PARKSVILLE — A construction tender has been awarded to add a much-needed new washroom option to Parksville’s waterfront.

A Wednesday, July 5 meeting saw council endorse a nearly $1.5 million project for a new high-capacity accessible washroom building and other enhancements.

Graham Gidden, manager of special projects for the City of Parksville, said the building will be linked to the main parking lot with a pedestrian pathway.

“The project also includes a new vehicle drop-off area, raised crosswalks, small group gathering areas, two outdoor showers, a drinking water foundation, landscaping and shade umbrellas.”

Institutional-grade stainless steel fixtures allow the vandal-resistant cinderblock building to withstand intensive use. It will also come with automatic doors for easier accessibility.

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Gidden said the project aligns with a decade-old parks master plan, which outlined the need for more washrooms in the park and improved accessibility.

The City believes the new washroom building ties in nicely with the recently built outdoor entertainment stage and ongoing gathering plaza project, among other enhancements at the well-used park.

“The project is an amalgamation of approved projects that were combined to expand opportunities in extending safety, accessibility and connectivity in the park.”

Councillors were told an estimated 1.5 million people use Parksville’s Community Park annually, putting immense pressure on amenities, particularly washrooms.

Gidden noted the existing primary washroom is beyond capacity, while the ageing small washroom near the ball diamonds is nearing the end of its life.

Councillors Joel Grenz and Amit Guar opposed the project, which is included in the City of Parksville’s financial plan, but cost more than originally expected.

City staff considered expanding the park’s primary washroom building, but that was not recommended as the adjacent playground, gathering area and roadway would be negatively impacted.

The new facility is expected to be completed this fall.

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ian@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @reporterholmes