New recreational developments proposed in Maple Ridge

As a part of a broader plan to increase recreational infrastructure, the Maple Ridge City Council has given preliminary approval to a series of new community facilities.

Among the changes, Hammond Community Park’s largest baseball field and pool will be redeveloped into a two-story community centre and an aquatic centre

Mayor Dan Ruimy says that updates to facilities are necessary to meet the community’s growing needs as the city’s population has been increasing at twice the national rate.

“At the end of the day, people have been asking for this. They’ve been asking for a recreational facility, they’ve been asking for more public space for people to be able to gather, play, and meet other people,” Ruimy told The Leader Spirit.

The 40-acre property of Maple Ridge Golf Course is also proposed to become a new community hub with a public park and baseball fields.

However, golfers are not happy about that.

“It is disappointing. I mean, the golf course has been here for 100 years,” said Joe Camara, operator of the golf course.

“It’s really a decision between the residents and the city. And whatever they come up with, we’ll have to live with.”

City staff have now been directed to look for ways to reduce the cost to taxpayers.