As part of the planning process, The North Bay Family of Rotary Steering Committee consulted with, and sought input from, several firms with experience in site planning and/or the construction and maintenance of Splash pad facilities.
The Committee also reviewed and took into consideration – the Community Waterfront Park Plan (Schollen & Company Inc., March 1, 2006), North Bay Community Waterfront Park: Strategic Plan Consultants Report (Sierra Planning and Management, March 2014) and in particular, the North Bay Downtown Waterfront Master Plan (Brook McIlroy, February 2017).
The recommended site was then selected based on the following key points:
1. The footprint for the proposed pad will be approximately 6,000 sq. ft. There is not sufficient space available immediately next to the waterfront to accommodate the pad.
2. Ongoing maintenance costs will be lower. Locating the pad next to the beach would result in sand clogging up the water feature nozzles and filtration system, requiring increased maintenance and temporary down-time.
3. Greater protection from the environment (i.e. windy and cooler days). Close proximity to the bus terminal, which will make it easier for families who rely on public transit. 3. It will act as a catalyst for future development of the former rail lands, as per what is proposed in the North Bay Downtown Waterfront Master Plan.
4. Further, it will help to connect the waterfront to the downtown, which will also include economic benefits to existing and new businesses.
5. The North Bay Museum will benefit from increased traffic in their gift shop and the museum itself; as will other adjacent vendors. 6. The Master Plan commented that the site is within a 5-minute walking distance of the actual waterfront via the pedestrian walkway. And future proposed plans may see a 2nd link between the site and the waterfront.
The recommended site has been endorsed by the North Bay Downtown Waterfront Advisory Committee and approved by North Bay City Council.
