Kipling Community Garden relocating to Crescent Heights

Medicine Hat, AB – The City of Medicine Hat, in partnership with the Community Food Connections Association, is relocating the Kipling Community Garden to Osborne Park in Crescent Heights. Starting Spring of 2024, the tennis courts in Osborne Parks will close, paving the way for the community garden.

Much of the infrastructure for the facility will remain onsite, such as the perimeter fence, lighting, asphalt court surface, and parking lot. The gardens will comprise of above-ground planters, thus minimal modifications are needed to repurpose the facility.

“This location was strategic as the current tennis court is nearing the end of its service life and boasts an established irrigation system for the gardens,” says Jamie McLeod, Manager Asset Planning, Parks and Recreation. “By repurposing underutilized spaces, the City is emphasizing responsibility and sustainable urban planning.”  

In December 2022, City Council endorsed and approved the donation of land where the Kipling Community Garden currently resides. This parcel of land will facilitate the construction of an affordable housing complex with the local organization, Medicine Hat Community Housing.

“Relocating the Kipling Community Garden to Osborne Park is an example of how challenges can be transformed into opportunities for the betterment of our community,” says Ryan Staples, Project Coordinator/Surface Landman, Environment Land and Gas Production. “With its existing infrastructure, Osborne Park is an ideal location that minimizes waste and maximizes utility, benefiting both the Community Food Connections Association and our local residents.”

With the impending closure of the tennis courts at Osborne Park, residents are encouraged to utilize other tennis facilities in the community. Additionally, developments at Jeffries Park will be soon underway to create a multi-season playing surface. 

To learn more about Community Gardens in Medicine Hat and their benefits, visit: https://www.foodconnections.ca/garden. 

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