Mad River Park improvements approved

Clearview council has approved capital improvements to the Mad River Park, at the base of Mill Street in Creemore.

The improvements are intended to create an “enhanced event location” and may include shade features, new benches/tables and upgraded electrical servicing.

The municipality has budgeted $10,000 for the project, and an additional $10,000 is coming from Creemore Springs Brewery (these funds are relocated from the Small Halls Festival, which was cancelled due to the pandemic.)

Clearview’s community, culture and tourism coordinator Amanda Murray reported on Jan. 10, as part of the financial donation from Creemore Springs Brewery, there must be a substantial recognition within the park for one of the brewery’s founders, the late John Wiggins. She said, staff will work with Creemore Springs Brewery and the Wiggins family to identify the recognition.

Also, the Tree Society of Creemore approached the parks department to discuss an opportunity to connect a trail from Mill Street, along the northside of Mad River Park to Langtry Street (off Edward Street West). They are also committed to enhancing the tree canopy by planting more native species and assisting with park clean ups, reported Murray.

She said the township will be applying for county funding for the trail enhancement.