Future of Meridian Community Centre Adjacent Lands
The strategic use of town-owned lands was an action item identified by Council in the 2023-2027 Town Strategic Plan. During the preparation of the Strategic Plan, Council identified the need to determine the best use of Town-owned lands adjacent to the Meridian Community Centre (MCC) at the northwest corner of Rice Road and Summersides Boulevard, identified as Part 4, to be an “Action Item.”
The lands are strategically located, highly valuable, and have multiple potential uses.
The sale of these lands to a third party was part of the original funding strategy associated with the construction and development of the MCC. While these lands were initially marketed and listed for sale, Council took these lands off the market in 2019 and they continue to remain in the Town’s ownership.
The MCC officially opened on September 15, 2018, as a community recreation centre for the Town. Attendance figures at the MCC have greatly exceeded all reasonable expectations, which has, in turn, increased the demand for parking. Since 2018, Town staff have received numerous formal and informal complaints regarding the lack of available parking.
In response to the parking complaints, Council approved a temporary parking lot on the lands in the fall of 2022. The northern half of the lands of Part 4 were graded and recycled asphalt material was laid down. The lands presently function as overflow parking when the MCC experiences high demand for parking, i.e., during tournaments and significant weekend events. Approximately 74 cars can be accommodated in this area. While the area was graded, no infrastructure was installed for this overflow parking area, i.e., storm sewers, lighting, or line painting.
Council requested an opportunity for public consultation on three proposed purposes for the future of the lands.
- Hybrid use of Lands for both Parking and Development
- Retain all Lands for Parking
- Sell all Lands for Development
Two open public consultation events are scheduled at the Meridian Community Centre from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. on Monday, April 15 and Thursday, April 18, 2024.
Feedback can be provided through the survey until April 30, 2024.