Public Engagement
An open house was held on Monday, June 7 at Rotary Beach Park. Residents were invited to provide input on conceptual plans, fill out a questionnaire, and ask questions to help refine the design. Preliminary plans 
shown at the open house can now be viewed.
In response to survey results obtained from the public open house, two refined design options were prepared.
A strong preference was given for maintaining the current park configuration, with the parking lot parallel to Lakeshore Road; and for enhancing facilities in support of the five most important activities identified: swimming, water play, sunbathing, picnicking, and vehicle parking. The plans also respond to two other key considerations: the provision of a Multi-Use Corridor through the park, and updating of washroom facilities.
Similarities in the Two Design Options (see plans dated July 14, 2010)
a) Both designs respond to preserving existing trees; especially the large mature trees adjacent to the parking and beach.
b) Each design option creates a strong arrival experience for pedestrians, with ample bike parking in association with the Multi-Use Corridor. These arrival areas have strong pedestrian connections from Lakeshore Road and the bus stop into the park.
c) Both plans show an increase in the amount and variety of seating opportunities in support of the passive recreational nature of the park. Some of these new seating opportunities, such as the proposed permanent shade umbrellas along the beach edge, create a colourful and unique identity for Rotary Beach provide shade.
d) New outdoor showers and drinking fountains have been proposed in support of updated washrooms and change rooms.
e) Large areas of sand beach have been provided at both ends of the park.
f) To address current safety concerns regarding vehicles exiting onto Lakeshore Road from the existing southern driveway, both plans show a single entrance/ exit, as well as a drop-off, turnaround area.
Differences in the Two Design Options (see plans dated July 14, 2010)
a) Each option has a different orientation for the parking stalls: Option “A” shows parking stalls facing Lakeshore Road; Option “B” shows stalls facing the park and lake. While the Option “B” has the better relationship to the park, it will require a significant relocation of existing utilities (underground fibre optic cables) which may prove cost prohibitive.
b) The other major difference is the location of the updated washroom facilities. Option “A” shows the washroom in the current location, utilizing the existing building footprint. While it does encroach into the required riparian setback from the lake, this location may be grandfathered.
Option “B” proposes relocating the washroom facilities to the north end of the park, adjacent to the main vehicle entry drive. This location provides higher visibility from Lakeshore Road as well as strengthens the key arrival area. This building location is outside the required riparian setback.