November 14, 2016 - The Recreation and Facilities Master Plan, FIT TOGETHER, will be presented to City Council tonight as a first report.

The Plan is considered a strategic planning document that will provide a framework for future investment over a 12-15 year horizon into facilities, programming and services for City recreation.

"Recreation has always been a valued part of our culture," said Lou Morrow, Corporate Projects Manager. "FIT TOGETHER will help identify how recreation needs can be met through future facility use, programing and service delivery, and help direct the investment of resources, prioritize needs, enhance customer service and align recreational services with the City's strategic goals."

The plan provides recommendations regarding older adult, youth, community centre and indoor/outdoor recreation facilities. It does not include asset recommendations specific to stand alone parks, however programming and services that occur within the city's parks are included.

The Plan is based on guiding principles consistent with the City's Strategic Plan. Current and relevant standards and best practices also helped form the foundation of the plan.

"The goal was to create a document that was evidence based, affordable and that followed a transparent process, including community and stakeholder over-site throughout the process," said Councillor Shelby Ch'ng. "The Plan is in alignment with the 2015-2018 Corporate Strategic Plans strong focus on encouraging healthy lifestyles through accessible and inclusive recreation programming and services for all."

Further consideration and Council approval of the recommendations will take place at the Committee of the Whole meeting on January 16, 2017.

Hard copies of the report are available at City Hall and all branches of the Thunder Bay Public Library.

To review the report online and provide comments, visit: www.thunderbay.ca/fittogether

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Contact: Stacey Levanen, Acting Supervisor - Corporate Communications, 625-3650