Castlegar city council has approved the final concept design for Brandson Neighbourhood Park, marking the completion of an engagement process that invited residents to help shape the park’s future.
Through multiple rounds of public engagement, more than 200 people shared their ideas and priorities for the park’s renewal. The city says their feedback consistently identified play opportunities for all ages, a green and lush environment, and places to sit and connect as top priorities.
The approved design reflects these community priorities by including:
- Playground equipment for children from six months to 12 years and up, including swings, climbing structures, and accessible sensory play elements;
- Nine new trees and new planting areas to enhance shade, biodiversity, and natural beauty while preserving all existing mature trees;
- Accessible pathways and rest areas, including benches and two accessible picnic tables; and,
- Signage to celebrate the park’s history and an accompanying audio recording to increase accessibility.
Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026 and is anticipated to take approximately three months to complete.
“This project is a great example of how community engagement can shape council’s decision-making,” mayor Maria McFaddin said in a news release.
“Residents told us what mattered most, and this design delivers on those priorities. Brandson Park will continue to be a welcoming space that honours the history and provides enjoyment for years to come.”
The total project cost is estimated at $382,000, which includes funding from the city’s game host agreement reserves. These funds are contributed from casino gaming revenue and can be used for projects that benefit the community.
The new park is on the same site as a previous park of a similar name. The city sold part of that land for a condo development, but promised the remaining land would be redeveloped as as a new community park space.
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