Every community needs green space. These spaces help connect us to nature, offer a quiet spot to relax or a place to meet our neighbour. And downtown is finally getting one. After 10 years of steady effort and planning by the community league, and support from city council, downtown is opening our first new park in 30 years — Alex Decoteau Park.

Our downtown population continues to grow. As it does, green spaces become even more crucial to the everyday lives of residents. When you live in a condo or apartment, parks within walking distance are important and necessary parts of a healthy neighbourhood.

But Alex Decoteau Park is not only downtown’s first new park in decades, it’s also a first for our city in many ways. It was designed with community input and features many ‘active’ uses that residents can participate in and enjoy. These include a community garden (complete with raised beds, shed and composting); a fenced, off-leash dog area for our furry friends (a first for Edmonton); grassed areas; lots of seating and meeting places, and push-activated fountains that every kid (and parent) will doubtlessly enjoy on hot summer days.