The City of Castlegar is being recognized for its efforts in community beautification, taking home the Scotts Turf Builder Outstanding Achievement Landscape Award at the 2024 Communities in Bloom National Awards Ceremony held in Charlottetown, PEI.
The award celebrates Castlegar’s dedication to sustainable landscape design and its commitment to enhancing public spaces.
A media release from the City states that the award specifically highlights the recently completed Millennium Park and Ponds Play Structure, also known as Canada’s tallest play structure. The 527-square-metre space features several sustainable elements and was designed with both environmental sustainability and accessibility in mind.
Key features include:
- The use of Robinia wood, a renewable, weather-resistant material.
- Incorporating native plants such as Kinnikinnick, Arrowleaf Balsamroot, and Shrubby Penstemon reduces water demand and supports local biodiversity.
- The playground’s safety surfacing uses a base of recycled rubber for durability, minimizing the need for frequent maintenance and replacement.
- Landscaping choices that promote long-term sustainability, including nine new shade trees and recycled plastic benches, contributing to a minimal maintenance approach.
“The castle play structure highlights how sustainable practices can be integrated into innovative design,” says Mayor Maria McFaddin.
“We’re proud to receive national recognition for our efforts and to continue fostering environmental stewardship in our parks and public spaces.”
The playground, which replaced an outdated structure, was partially funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program.
The project team included Urban Systems Ltd., ParkWorks Solutions Corp., and MarWest Industries.
The City says this award builds on Castlegar’s long-standing participation in the Communities in Bloom program, which encourages civic pride and community involvement through volunteer efforts and sustainable initiatives.
The City was also awarded a 5 Blooms—Bronze rating as part of this year’s ceremony, recognizing excellence in environmental action, heritage conservation, urban forestry, and community engagement.
Additionally, Castlegar’s McKenna Ross received an Outstanding Achievement Award as a top volunteer under the age of 30.
Local groups like Castlegar Communities in Bloom contribute over 4,000 volunteer hours annually, further enhancing the city’s green spaces.
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