Inlet Park Redevelopment Project

What is the cost of the Inlet Park Redevelopment Project?

The field is estimated to cost $6.2 million. The Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program grant funds approximately 72.5% of the project with $206,415 provided by the federal government and $4,339,052 from the provincial government. The City will provide the balance of the $1.7 million funding.

The fieldhouse is estimated at $2.2 million and will require future funding.

Will the artificial field have crumb rubber?

Yes, the artificial field will contain crumb rubber. The City currently has two artificial turf fields. Trasolini Field was resurfaced in 2010 and the North Shore Community Park was resurfaced in 2016-2017. Both were built in accordance with the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) children’s toy safety standard (EN 71-3), which remains the current safety standard requirement.

Is crumb rubber safe?

Health and safety is a top priority for the City. We consult with the Fraser Health Authority for health and technical expertise related to human health concerns. In 2008, Fraser Health Authority reviewed the potential impacts of synthetic field. After field-testing and consultation with the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, they reported that there were “no significant health concerns related to the presence of lead or other metals in some synthetic fields.” At this time, there is no change to the Fraser Health Authority’s position in 2008, but they confirm that artificial turf field must be built in accordance with the most recent standard requirements, which is the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) children’s toy safety standard (EN 71-3).

How will crumb rubber be contained to the field?

To avoid the transfer of crumb rubber, the field design incorporates catch basins and cleat brushes to contain any loose crumb rubber caught in footwear or clothing. 

How is the City addressing light pollution from the park?

We have worked to minimize any light pollution from Inlet Park. The lighting plan for the park has incorporated the guidelines of the International Dark Sky Association (IDA), the recognized authority on light pollution worldwide. For example, the park will not include uplighting—a lighting effect created by placing lights on the ground and pointing them upwards which is commonly used for baseball.

Will any trees be removed as part of this project?

Yes, while we have worked to minimize the environmental impact of the project, trees will be removed including 15 Black Pines along Murray Street.

The project footprint was redesigned and strategically positioned to protect sensitive forested areas and mature trees. Where possible, alternative design options have been selected to reduce impact to trees.

Trees will be replaced at approximately a 2-1 ratio at strategic locations around Inlet Park. A comprehensive restoration and landscaping plan is part of the overall project design. The plan, which includes replacement and new plantings of shrubs and understory (layer of vegetation that grows under the forest canopy), will help to ensure no net loss of environmental habitat.

Why are trees being removed?

We conducted a tree impact assessment with an arborist as part of the overall project design. The main purpose of this assessment was to note the species, size and conditions of the trees which will be impacted, as well as identify trees that could be retained for ecological value. The goal for the project is to retain native trees where possible and help maintain the existing natural area surrounding the project site.

Trees are marked for removal for several reasons including:

• trees are in poor health with issues such as no live foliage, dieback at top of canopy, sun scald, insect infestation, galls or conks, lifted root plate, and deformed trunks;
• trees are nearing the end of their life expectancy;
• tree species are not recommended for the conditions of this area; 
• tree species are of low ecological value for this site (i.e. biodiversity, contribution to soil, etc.); or
• trees are within the boundary of the expanded Inlet Park area.

When will the trees be removed?

Trees are scheduled to be removed in January 2023, outside of the general nesting season for birds.  

Will the trees be replaced?

Trees will be replaced at approximately a 2-1 ratio at strategic locations around Inlet Park. A comprehensive restoration and landscaping plan is part of the overall project design. The plan, which includes replacement and new plantings of shrubs and understory (layer of vegetation that grows underneath the forest canopy), will help to ensure no net loss of environmental habitat.

What happens to the trees that are removed?

Possible uses for the trees include:

• cedar trees will be assessed for suitability for local First Nations;
• volunteer groups such as Tri-Cities Offroad Cycling Association (TORCA) will be offered the opportunity to use the trees for trail maintenance;
• some trees will be used to restore and improve riparian habitat on City projects;
• trees deemed appropriate will be sold for lumber with the profits going back to the City;
• chippings from the trees may be used to mulch trees and planting areas; and
• the remaining wood chips will be taken to a compost site where they will eventually be turned into topsoil.