Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Guelph and the Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) are working on an agreement to transfer 126.16 acres of land along Niska Road to the city, a move that will expand parkland.
The GRCA board is expecting the city to purchase the land for $756,960 using its parkland reserve fund. The planned acquisition includes 101.41 acres north of Niska Road, encompassing the former Frank Kortright Waterfowl Management Area and land connecting Crane Park to Niska Road, as well as 24.75 acres of Natural Heritage System south of the road. Agricultural land zoned for residential development south of Niska Road is not included in the purchase.
As part of the agreement, the GRCA will contribute up to $350,000 for trail construction and restoration, reflecting the city’s historical role in assembling the property. The two organizations plan to form a joint working group, including public members, to guide trail development and environmental restoration.
“This planned land acquisition is very exciting for the city,” said Gene Matthews, general manager of parks. “As our community grows, we need to increase the amount of park space available so there’s room for everyone to enjoy the outdoors.
“The Niska lands bring Natural Heritage System land, trail network expansion and space for a future community park into our parkland system.”
The city plans to begin restoring trail access over the coming months and will engage the community in planning future park amenities. While no specific budget or timeline has been set for full park development, the purchase marks the first step in a multi-year plan to expand recreational space in Guelph.
“We applaud the city for valuing the benefits of spending time outdoors for its residents and for its commitment to conserving these natural lands,” said GRCA director of conservation lands.
The city’s parkland reserve fund, supported by cash-in-lieu contributions from developers, makes the acquisition possible. Updates on the project will be posted on the City of Guelph website.
