Dover Playspace Optimization
Updated March 25: As part of The Parks and Playground Amenities Program (PAPA), The City of Calgary is working to revitalize and improve park spaces throughout Calgary. In the Ward 9, the community of Dover will see park and playground updates starting this summer.
The goal of the Playground Optimization program is to transform playgrounds that have reached the end of their lifecycle and to create revived park spaces. We are not looking to change the use of the park, but rather to develop greenspaces that become more welcoming for more people in the community. As we move to prioritize playground quality over quantity while still maintaining our commitment to ensuring that there are 5 nearby playgrounds for every 1000 kids under 12, we look to both replace aging play structures with new playground equipment or to reimagine these spaces with alternative park amenities.
Engagement Update
The City thanks community members for taking the time to share thoughts, feedback, and insight into their valued community park spaces. A summary of the engagement feedback, compiled as ‘What We Heard’ reports, are now available online at engage.calgary.ca/parkspaces. You can view the Dover specific report here: Dover What We Heard Report.
We understand that change within community parks and playgrounds can be difficult as these spaces hold special meaning to community members. Due to budget limitations, we cannot replace all aging playgrounds across the city. While we do our best to incorporate community feedback when planning these upcoming park and playground improvement projects, we must ultimately work within the limits of what’s possible within scope and budget. Our commitment to sustainability and equity drives our goal of providing a balanced mix of play areas and open spaces for everyone.
Next Steps
This year in Dover, two community park sites have been identified for asset and amenity improvements based on engagement feedback, best practices and budget allocation.
The PAPA project team has proposed:
Replacing the playground at DOV779
48 Dovercrest Way SE with a new playground
Community members noted that they would like the new playground to include swings, climbing features, and a slide
Reimagining the playground at DOV780
4102 Doverbrook Rd SE
Community members are in favour of a mixed-use space for both gameplay and gathering; many engagement respondents requested cornhole.
The City of Calgary has proposed installing a picnic table.
These parks are ½ a block apart and currently duplicate amenities. The DOV780 park is small for a playground, so the City has propose replacing the playground at DOV779 (the larger site), and reimaging DOV780 with all-ages amenities that invite play and provide a gathering space.