Owen Sound’s Owen Heights and Comm-R-Ette Parks officially reopened on July 20, 2026, bringing an end to a playground replacement project that began in fall 2025 and faced months of delays. The City of Owen Sound announced the news on social media, thanking its Parks Team for getting the sites ready for public use.
The playgrounds had been closed since construction started last fall, with work stalling over the winter. In the spring, a reassessment found that parts of the initial installation did not meet the city’s standards for safety, durability, and accessibility. Crews had to remove concrete curbs and pads at Comm-R-Ette Park and returned in June 2026 to redo the work, including base preparation, concrete, asphalt walkways, and site grading.
In October 2025, city council approved a $286,000 contract with Park N Play Design Co. Ltd. for the supply, delivery, and installation of the new playgrounds. Each park had a budget of $147,500, with the Owen Heights contract coming in at $146,500 and the Comm-R-Ette contract at $138,800.
In July 2026, council approved an additional $20,000 in change orders from the Parkland Reserve to complete the work.
Beyond the play structures, both parks now feature accessible pathways, gathering spaces, and seating areas. The equipment is designed for kids aged 18 months to 12 years. Before construction, the city held public open houses on May 20 and 22, 2025, and an online survey to gather community input on the designs.
Owen Heights Park sits at 5th Street East and 8th Avenue ‘A’ East, while Comm-R-Ette Park is at 505 2nd St. ‘A’ W. The reopening marks a welcome return for families in those neighbourhoods. The city reminded residents that the Parks Department looks after more than 40 parks, 18 playgrounds, and over 380 acres of parkland across Owen Sound.
For more information on the playground replacements, visit the city’s project page.
