Dear Editor:
RE: Harrison Park opens in Elora, Oct. 30.
As an avid runner, local swim instructor and promoter of physical literacy, I must say I am deeply grateful for every park that is built in our neighborhoods.
Opened just two weeks ago, Harrison Park not only includes a large play structure but also boasts a basketball court, covered picnic area, open area reserved for a future ice rink and pathways to the existing trail network allowing for the enjoyment of all ages.
Harrison Park now removes an environmental barrier to physical activity. In the South River community but also in any urban locality, having spaces where residents can connect, make memories and a place for children and adults to become more active is crucial.
For urban populations physical activity is difficult when the minimum average lot size is only 270 to 800 square meters as stated by the Ontario Environmental Registry. Attempting to live an active lifestyle with spacing limitations proves difficult without the presence of parks and recreational areas.
In Canada we face a physical activity crisis where people are not getting enough exercise for their emotional, mental and physical health. No wonder we’ve been seeing a rise in mental, emotional and physical health issues over the past few years.
With the new park in place, it is my hope that the place becomes somewhere activities take root and where people can grow together.
Julie DeBoer,
Guelph/Eramosa