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City of Richmond wins BCRPA Parks Excellence Award

By Richmond Sentinel

Published 10:20 PDT, Thu May 8, 2025

BC Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) has announced the City of Richmond as the recipient of the 2025 Parks Excellence Award for their renewal of Minoru Park – Lakes District (bcrpa.bc.ca/membership/provincial-awards).

BCPRA's Parks Excellence Award recognizes outstanding design and development of park spaces that utilize natural elements or repurposed materials, reflect community culture, enhance accessibility for all, and encourage engagement with nature. Winning projects must positively impact the well-being of the community and the recreation and parks sector.

Located within one of Richmond’s signature parks, the renewed Lakes District combines the preservation of beloved features with bold improvements in environmental sustainability, accessibility, and community wellness. Highlights include the restoration of two lakes through an innovative rainwater-fed system, a comprehensive habitat renewal plan, revitalized pathways and plazas, expanded accessibility features, and an increased tree canopy that strengthens the park’s climate resilience.

The project was shaped through an extensive, multilingual public consultation process that ensured community priorities were reflected at every stage. By preserving its tranquil natural character while enhancing inclusivity and environmental stewardship, the Lakes District offers a dynamic and peaceful urban oasis for residents, visitors, and future generations.

“The Lakes District at Minoru Park beautifully illustrates how communities can preserve cherished spaces while evolving them for modern needs,” said Katie Fenn, chief executive officer of BCRPA. “Through ecological innovation, inclusivity, and strong community engagement, the City of Richmond has created a welcoming sanctuary that promotes health, connection, and sustainability.”

The Parks Excellence Award is one of six Provincial Awards of Excellence presented during BCRPA’s annual symposium, held this year in Whistler. Each award is presented on behalf of BCRPA’s more than 5,200 members across the province who work to enhance the physical and mental health, wellness, connectedness, and quality of life of their communities.

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