Following a ribbon cutting ceremony attended by visiting teams competing in the Western Canada Summer Games, members of RMWB council, residents and sponsors, Fort McMurray’s newest park is now officially open.
Snye Point Park and the Snye Amenetites Building are situated where the Snye River meets the Clearwater River and the park features green space, pathways, a play structure, seating areas and more.
Despite the fact the park is now open much of it won’t be accessible to the public until the conclusion of the WCSG because the site will serve as a venue for Beach Volleyball, Canoe/Kayak and Rowing events.
After that, games co-chair John Wilson said, the park will be a legacy.
“For years to come we’ll all be able to utilize this facility. I mean, you look around us and, as I said, it’s a real game changer for Fort McMurray,” said Wilson.
He said the park is just one of many legacy projects that residents will benefit from thanks to the WCSG including beautification work on Franklin Avenue and infrastructure improvements to Franklin Avenue and Hardin Street downtown.
Members of the Waterfront Steering Committee were also on hand for the grand opening ceremony Wednesday including Chair Ian Dirom who said he hoped Snye Point Park would serve as only a first step of many in improvements to shoreline access in Wood Buffalo.
“The confluence of the Athabasca and the Clearwater and the Snye connecting into the Clearwater here, MacDonald Island, Rocke Island, it’s just spectacular scenery, truly magnificent. It’s an area in my mind of outstanding natural beauty which matches some of the most beautiful places across the country not just Fort McMurray,” he said.
Snye Point Park will be completely open to the public after After August 17th but until then the municipality is asking you to use boat launches at Prairie Loop and King Street or at Horse Pasture Park to access the water.
