Residents surrounding Willistead Park met with officials Wednesday night, after the city began construction on more accessible pathways on the grounds.
The city is installing drainage in the park, with plans to construct large asphalt paths, which officials say would be more accessible to those with a disability. Residents however, believe the new paths would cause the park to lose its natural state of beauty.
“I like the park setting, the gardens are so appealing,” says long time neighbour, Norman Ashurst.
Ashurst agrees the park needs paths, but says it shouldn’t be unnecessary large.
"Is there a written in stone law about accessibility in a park, whether it has to be a roadway,” says Ashurst. "We need a walking trail, but not the extension of a car path."
The city has set aside $400,000 for the construction, which was approved by the board of Willistead.
Several people involved with the Save Willistead Park group rallied outside Willistead Manor before the public meeting. The group has more than 500 Facebook members.
Save Willistead Park will have the opportunity to voice their displeasure before city council on Nov. 18.
