Canadian City Parks Report 2020

City Profile

Richmond Hill

Ontario
Population: 209286

At 67%, Richmond Hill has a higher than average ratio of parkland that is natural area.
Richmond Hill is one of 56% of cities with a community park group program.
With nearly 11 volunteers per 1,000 people, Richmond Hill is above the median of 8.

A new youth area in Lake Wilcox Park opened in summer 2019, providing a safe and lively gathering place for youth aged 13-19 including a skatepark, beach volleyball courts, fitness equipment and wifi.
Council approved the preparation of an Urban Open Space Master Plan to be initiated in late 2020 that will identify opportunities to improve green space connectivity.
The redeveloped Bradstock Park incorporates a unique kaleidoscope-themed design, with interactive and artful play features.

Data 2020

ha parkland per 1000 people

1044 ha total parkland¹

67%

of total parkland is natural area

703 total ha

of parkland is environmentally significant/protected

64 total ha

10%

of total city land is parkland

10100 ha of total city area

Dog parks

Community gardens/urban farms

1.52

Parkland provision goal (ha per 1000 people)

10.9

volunteers per 1000 people

2280 total

community park groups

Yes

Policy to waive permit fees for groups with financial need?

Community Stewardship Program

Community Garden Program

Community park group program

Community Stewardship Program

Community Garden Program

Community grant program

$41

Parks operating budget per person

$8,651,300 total

$2,113,900²

Total parks capital budget

$136,300

Total philanthropy/sponsorships

Yes

Provincially legislated tools available for parkland development

Community Benefits Charge³

¹This total does not include an additional 935 hectares of natural parkland owned by the Conservation Authority and the Province. ²Excludes salaries/wages. ³This tool was introduced in 2019 and is still under review. Previous Provincial legislation allowed 5% of development site or cash-in-lieu.