City of Calgary celebrates grand opening of Thomson Family Park in Beltline

Today, The City of Calgary Parks opened one of the city’s newest community parks located in the Beltline - Thomson Family Park. Mayor Nenshi, Councillor Evan Woolley and the Thomson Family, who the park is named after, joined in the celebrations.

“This is an amazing new public space for all Calgarians—especially those who live in the Beltline,” said Mayor Nenshi. “Thank you to the Thomson family for helping us build such a special place in the heart of our city. We’re thrilled to add Thomson Family Park to the list of thousands of parks that all our citizens can enjoy throughout Calgary.”

“Park space is so needed in high density areas like this,” said Ward 8 Councillor Evan Woolley. “Green spaces create a sense of vibrancy and an engaged community.”

The new inner-city green space, located along 16 Avenue between 11 and 12 Streets SW, offers Beltline residents another outdoor community recreation venue, with a playground, picnic tables, winter skating opportunities and a lookout viewpoint. The design of the park even echoes certain aspects of lawn bowling, one of the activities located at the site in the past.

“The curve of the pathway within the park mimics the arc of a lawn ball when it’s in motion,” said Michelle Wong, project manager, Calgary Parks. “Even the original overhead lighting has been refurbished and preserved. As well, the lookout pavilion is designed with rounded edges, so when you view it from above, it looks like a lawn bowling ball.”

The redevelopment and new vision for the park were made possible in part thanks to a generous donation by the Thomson family. “We are very proud to be a part of this new community park,” said Hugh Thomson. “Mom grew up in the Connaught neighbourhood, attending the local school and playing in this park. We dedicate the new park to the citizens of Calgary, to recognize the good fortune Calgary has given our family.”

For more information about the Thomson Family Park, visit calgary.ca/thomsonfamilypark.