News release

For immediate release

Saanich, BC – Members of Saanich Council today announced the official ground-breaking ceremony at Rutledge Park, marking the commencement of construction on a series of exciting and much-anticipated improvements.

Upgrades to the park will include a brand-new washroom/changeroom building, modern playground equipment, and a long-awaited splash pad. The improvements are made possible thanks to joint federal, provincial, and municipal funding.

Saanich will replace existing playground equipment with a modern design incorporating nature play and natural elements. The new seasonal splash pad will have inclusive elements for children and youth of all abilities. A new washroom/changeroom building with private universal and accessible spaces will be open year-round. Additionally, new paved pathways, park furniture (benches, chairs, and picnic tables), and a drinking fountain/water bottle filling station will be added to Rutledge Park.

Construction is expected to be completed in 2024.

These improvements will significantly enhance the overall experience of the park while fostering a sense of community and creating a vibrant social hub that brings people of all ages and backgrounds together.

Quotes

“Today is a significant day as construction begins on the Rutledge Park upgrade project. Through enhancing the playground with modern equipment, adding private washroom facilities, and introducing an accessible splash pad, the District of Saanich is crafting a park that’s safer and more enjoyable for children of all abilities. These improvements will undoubtedly create cherished family memories and bring the Saanich community even closer together.”

The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities

“As a mom, I know the importance of parks and public amenities. Improvements to Rutledge Park will help encourage active play for children in the community while giving families an affordable option to beat the summer heat. Through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure program, my ministry is proud to be supporting communities, such as Saanich, to highlight the importance of connection and activity.”

Minister of Municipal Affairs, Honourable Anne Kang

“Families and kids will have even more to enjoy at Rutledge Park with the addition of a splash pad to keep play cool during the summer months. Upgrading and adding to infrastructure like this ensures our community has more accessible places to play and connect – projects like these are just one example of how we are working together at all levels of government to support our Greater Victoria community, and others throughout the province.”

MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake, Rob Fleming

“On behalf of Saanich Council, it is exciting to see construction underway for these long-awaited improvements at Rutledge Park. It is through partnership funding with provincial and federal governments, as well as enthusiastic support from area residents, that we can enhance the overall experience at Rutledge Park. This project exemplifies our shared commitment to vibrant, inclusive communities and ensures the park can thrive well into the future.”

Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock

Did you know?

• A combined investment of $370,650 from the Government of Canada, $535,342 from the province, and $329,508 of municipal funding will make the long-awaited project a reality.
  • The word ‘Rutledge’ means ‘red lache or pool’ from the old Anglican words ‘redd’ and ‘loec’ meaning a stream or pool in bog land. 
  • Following an open and competitive process last spring, Vancouver-based architecture firm VDZ+A Consulting was granted the contract to tackle the improvements at Rutledge Park.
  • Saanich Parks, together with VDZ+A, hosted an open house on May 31 to display information and gather feedback from the public on plans for updating the park.

For more information and updates on the project as it progresses, visit our project page. 

Questions or comments?

Contact us at 250-475-5522 or parks@saanich.ca. 

 

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Media contact:

Eva Riccius
Senior Manager of Parks
District of Saanich
250-475-5523
eva.riccius@saanich.ca