The challenge of sustaining a park located next to 20 per cent of Canadians is something that Parks Canada says they’re looking forward to. Pam Veinotte, a Parks Canada superintendent with Rouge Park, said Rouge Park will allow Parks Canada to connect with a lot of people they’ve never had the opportunity to reach before.
She said that, although it’s an exciting opportunity, the surrounding urban areas will also be a big challenge for Parks Canada moving forward. She said she’s concerned about issues such as vandalism, illegal dumping, neglect, pollution and a lack of enforcement.
The park is slated to receive $143.7 million in funding throughout its initial 10 years and $7.6 million annually afterwards. Veinotte says the Rouge will be far healthier and better protected than it has ever been.
Under Parks Canada’s plan, the Rouge will receive:
- An enhanced trail system that aims to allow more access into the park
- Public campgrounds
- Canoe and kayak rentals
- Public washrooms
- Six visitors centres stationed throughout various points of the park
- Comprehensive conservation methods aimed at saving at-risk species within the park
- Better enforcement of laws within the park
- 12 employees as well as multiple co-op students
- No entry fees except for when using camping ground and canoe/kayak services
“Our goal is simple,” Veinotte said in an interview. “We’re going to have the best protected urban park in the world.”
