The City of Courtenay is asking for public input as it begins work on a new long-term plan for Bill Moore Park and Dogwood Park in west Courtenay.

The strategic plan will look at the two parks as a connected system, including sports fields, the lawn bowling facility, playground, rail trail, and surrounding green spaces.

The goal is to guide future upgrades, improve accessibility and safety, and explore opportunities for new features while keeping the parks welcoming and connected.

“Bill Moore Park and Dogwood Park are important gathering places for west Courtenay, and this planning process is about listening to the people who use them every day,” said Mayor Bob Wells.

“By working with the community, we can develop a long-term vision that protects the natural character of these parks while expanding inclusive recreational opportunities for residents of all ages.”

Public engagement will take place in two phases.

The first runs through April 20 and includes an online survey, along with pop-up events and workshops to gather feedback on how the parks are currently used and what improvements residents would like to see.

In the second phase, draft concepts based on that feedback will be shared with the community through an open house and a second survey before the final plan is completed.

Once finished, the strategy will help guide future investment in both parks, with a focus on protecting natural features and supporting a wide range of recreational uses.

Residents can take part in the survey online, with paper copies also available at City Hall, the Lewis Centre, the Florence Filberg Centre, and the Courtenay Library.