Dawson Creek hosts engagement session at new multi-use sports courts

Community members and city council at the new multi-use sports courts. (City of Dawson Creek)

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. — An engagement session for Dawson Creek’s newly built multi-use sports courts in Kin Park took place on September 15th.

Community members were encouraged to provide the city with feedback on the courts that have been open since mid-August and suggestions on facilities to add to the 2024 budget.

During the event, residents expressed the need for benches, walkways, washrooms, access to water and signage to encourage proper use of the court.

The project’s grand opening was initially scheduled for September 15th, but it was delayed to next summer. Melissa Love, communications manager for the city, told Energeticcity.ca that the delay was due to some guests being unable to attend the event on such short notice.

“We decided we would rather pivot this event to an engagement session and plan a ceremony when everyone that needs to be involved will be able to attend,” said Love.

Love highlighted the importance of letting locals enjoy the courts before conducting a grand opening since “It’s more of a formality that will include completed signage, speeches and a ribbon cutting.”

Hosting the grand opening next year also opens the possibility of completing more facilities based on suggestions from the public. However, this means there is no final number on the project’s total cost.

Darcy Dober playing pickleball. (City of Dawson Creek)

In response to locals who might have mixed feelings about the project, Love noted the significance of recreation in Dawson Creek.

“Although these sport courts might not be something one group uses, there are many groups in Dawson Creek that will benefit from them, including seniors, sports groups, school classrooms and more,” said Love.

The City of Dawson Creek has plans for more projects in the future, such as the new accessible playground for families with small children being built near the courts.

“Both of these projects combined will bring life back into Kin Park, which is a staple outdoor space in Dawson Creek,” said Love

For more information, visit the City of Dawson Creek website.