Thank you to everyone who participated in Kitchener's City-Wide Playground Engagement.

From May 12 to June 29, 2026, residents shared feedback through Engage Kitchener, community events, and pop-up engagement sessions across the city. Together, we received more than 1,000 comments and connected with 703 residents, including children, youth, adults, and older adults.

To help reach a diverse range of voices, engagement materials were translated into multiple languages, interpreters were used where needed, and outreach was supported through park signage, community centre posters, and staff-led conversations throughout Kitchener.

What we learned

This engagement highlighted the important role playgrounds play in supporting recreation, community connection, and quality of life across Kitchener.

While residents shared different experiences depending on where they live, feedback consistently showed that people value both neighbourhood playgrounds for everyday use and larger destination parks for unique play experiences and family outings.

Residents also emphasized that the quality of the overall park experience matters. Features such as shade, seating, accessibility, gathering spaces, and water play were often discussed alongside playground equipment itself.

Children and youth described playgrounds as places for adventure, creativity, challenge, and connection with friends, reinforcing the importance of providing diverse play opportunities for different ages and abilities.

Most mentioned playgrounds

The playgrounds residents commented on most often were:

• Victoria Park
• McLennan Park
• RBJ Schlegel Park
• Lions Park
• Forest Heights Community Centre and Fire Hall
• Breithaupt Park
• Centreville Chicopee Community Centre
• Lakeside Park
• Wilson Park
• Duke Park

In their comments on these parks, respondents often highlighted the play opportunities, amenities, accessibility, and overall visitor experience at these playgrounds.

Key themes

Neighbourhood playgrounds matter

Residents value playgrounds close to home. Many highlighted the importance of safe, well-maintained parks, walkable access, seating, gathering spaces, and opportunities to connect with neighbours and friends.

Variety makes play better

Participants told us they want playgrounds that offer a range of experiences, including climbing features, swings, spinning elements, natural play opportunities, and equipment for different ages and abilities.

Destination playgrounds are important

Residents identified larger playgrounds, such as Victoria Park, McLennan Park, RBJ Schlegel Park, and Breithaupt Park, as destinations worth travelling to because they offer a variety of play experiences and amenities for families.

Shade is a priority

One of the strongest themes was the need for more shade. Residents consistently requested additional tree planting, shade structures, and comfortable seating areas to improve comfort during hot summer months.

Water play attracts families

Splash pads and water play features were frequently connected to positive park experiences. Participants shared that water play encourages longer visits and is often a deciding factor when choosing a park destination.

How your feedback will be used

Across all engagement activities, residents shared the following priorities:

• Shade and trees
• Diverse play opportunities
• Accessibility and inclusion
• Water play features
• Convenient neighbourhood access
• Ongoing playground improvements and renewal

The engagement findings will be combined with information about playground conditions, neighbourhood needs, accessibility, and equitable access considerations. Together, these insights will guide future renewal projects, accessible upgrades, and long-term planning across Kitchener's playground network.

While not every suggestion can be implemented, the feedback collected through this engagement provides valuable direction for future decision-making and helps ensure community priorities remain part of the conversation.

Project complete

This project is now complete. We appreciate everyone who took the time to share experiences, ideas, and priorities for Kitchener's playgrounds. Your input has helped build a stronger understanding of what residents value in playgrounds and will help inform future planning and investment decisions across Kitchener.

Thank you for helping shape the future of playgrounds in our community.

If you have any questions, please reach out to the Parks & Cemeteries division by email or phone 519-741-2345 (TTY: 1-866-969-9994).