Lively could have a new as-yet undefined recreational amenity built as early as 2026.
It’s been a few years since the city sold Meatbird Lake Park to Vale for $4 million, but the money remains earmarked for a recreational amenity in the Lively community.
Since that time, there have been two rounds of public consultation to help determine what to do with the funds, which narrowed the project’s focus toward a single amenity at one of three locations in Lively.
The three locations are:
- Lively Ski Hill property (231 FIrst Ave.)
- Anderson Farm property (550 Municipal Rd. 24)
- Greenspace adjacent to the Lively Citizen Service Centre/Library (15 Kin Dr.)
It remains to be seen what the amenity will be, though city Recreation Manager Jessica Watts said the aim is to develop something at least on par with what Meatbird Lake Park was.
The since-closed park included a water feature, swimming area, playground and an outdoor walking path surrounding the area.
Architectural firm 3rdLine Studio was recently awarded a tender to determine a recommended location and amenity in a report to city council by mid-2025.
Afterward, they’re to produce a detailed design of the project for construction as early as 2026.
“They’ve been charged with working to ‘maximize’ municipal funding with a new, modern facility,” Watts said.
Public consultation thus far made it loud and clear that area residents want a water amenity, she said, “with suggestions being outdoor swimming, waterfront or beach opportunities as top priorities. Other things, like kayaking or canoeing or trails for hiking or a splash pad have been mentioned as well.”
Earlier this year, city council topped up the $4-million Lively recreation fund with $396,000 previously earmarked for the Lively Ski Hill’s chalet, when they directed staff to keep the funds for the cancelled capital work in the community.
“There could be other options for additional funding through grants or other sources to supplement if more funding is needed, and we'll look into this once we know more about what the amenity will look like and what its cost will be,” Watts said.
The 10-member Lively Recreation Advisory Panel (seven community members, one ward councillor, Leisure Services director and a city communications staff member) is expected to meet with 3rdLine Studio representatives to discuss options early in the new year. The architects are also anticipated to hold at least one more opportunity for public feedback prior to developing a final recommendation to city council.
3rd Line Studio will be bringing in recreational planner Jon Hack of Sierra Planning and Management to support the project with his planning expertise and perspective.
Ward 2 Coun. Eric Benoit told Sudbury.com that he’s looking forward to seeing the project roll out in the coming months. It’s important to the Lively community, he said, adding, “I’d love for there to be more news on it.”
Tyler Clarke covers city hall and political affairs for Sudbury.com.