Community to Help Name Neighbourhood Park at 823 5th Avenue East, Formerly Ryerson Park

Residents are invited to participate in the first phase of public engagement to help choose a new name for the City park located at 823 5th Avenue East, north of 8th Street East. The park, previously known as Ryerson Park, is undergoing a renaming process guided by the City’s Naming and Re‑Naming Policy for City Parks and Facilities. A full project page is available on the City’s online engagement platform at OurCity.OwenSound.ca/Park-Naming.

This community‑driven project will unfold in two phases, beginning with the opportunity for residents to suggest meaningful, locally rooted park names.

Phase 1: Suggesting Names

Until Monday, May 4, residents are encouraged to submit name suggestions at OurCity.OwenSound.ca/Park-Naming that reflect the park’s location, neighbourhood identity, natural features, or community history. In the case of the park at 823 5th Ave. E., Council has asked that a name with a locational reference be given priority.

Four names have already been proposed for consideration:

• Old School Park
• Eighth Street Park
• Boyd Street Park
• “Friendship Land” in Anishinaabe – Ningaawendam Miikana

Community members may offer additional ideas through the OurCity Owen Sound engagement platform. Registration is required so staff can follow up if clarification is needed. All personal information collected will remain confidential.

Phase 2: Consulting on Suggested Names

Later this year, the City will invite residents to provide input on the suggested names collected in Phase 1. Feedback from both phases will help inform City Council before a final decision is made.

Once public engagement is complete, a summary of community input will be presented to Community Services Committee and Council. The City will provide at least 10 days’ notice before a final decision is made.

Residents can stay informed by following the project page on OurCity Owen Sound.

In 2021, the City of Owen Sound adopted Policy No. CS087 to establish a transparent and consistent framework for naming and renaming City parks and facilities. The policy sets out clear criteria and a structured process for reviewing naming requests, including defined requirements for applicants and opportunities for both community and expert consultation. Following the submission of a formal application, City Council formally initiated the renaming process, including the establishment of a Council Working Group to review the request. Council subsequently approved the renaming of the park.

For more information, please contact Pam Coulter, Director of Community Services, at 519-376-4440 ext. 1252 or email pcoulter@owensound.ca

Quick Facts:

• The request to rename Ryerson Park is the first to be considered under the Naming and Re-Naming Policy for City Parks and Facilities, adopted by Council in 2021.
• The opportunity for suggesting names to be considered will remain open until Monday, May 4, 2026

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