City of Kawartha Lakes Council approved the Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan in November of 2025. The Plan and related documents can be found in the documents library on this project page.

The new Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan is a major update to the 2004 plan, designed to guide investment and decision making for the next 15 years. This plan responds to population growth, changing recreation needs, and aging infrastructure.

Key Takeaways:

• Community-Driven: Built on resident input through surveys, focus groups and open houses that identified priorities such as more arenas, pools, pickleball courts, trails, and accessible recreation.
• Focus on Access and Inclusion: Aims to improve recreation access for all ages and abilities, addressing barriers related to distance, affordability, and accessibility.
• Modern, Multi-Use Facilities: Shifts toward multi-purpose recreation hubs that combine space for sports, community events, and wellness activities to replace or modernize aging, single-use facilities.
• Upgraded Parks and Trails: Plans for enhanced Destination and Community parks, additional walking paths, seating, shade, and waterfront access for both rural and urban communities.
• Expanded Programming: Seeks to broaden recreation programs and events through new partnerships with schools, community groups and non-municipal providers.

The presentation to Committee of the Whole made on October 7, 2025 can be viewed online: