On Monday, July 21, East Hawkesbury residents were invited to share their input on the Augustin Larocque Park refurbishment project during a public consultation at the Chute-à-Blondeau Community Centre. The park in Chute-à-Blondeau is currently closed due to the poor condition of the site and is undergoing construction.
Approximately 25 community members attended the public consultation hosted by the township.
Head of the Building Services Department Jessy Hoffman explained that although plans were already underway for the park’s refurbishment, residents could submit additional suggestions for what they would like to see installed at the site.
The core cost of the refurbishment project will be approximately $50,000, but the township has already secured $60,000. This includes $50,000 from the United Counties of Prescott-Russell and $10,000 from available East Hawkesbury township funds.
Of this amount, $20,000 will be used to install a concrete surface pad measuring approximately 2,800 square feet, accommodating a tennis and pickleball court in the summer and converting into an ice rink in the winter.
The installation of a modernized and accessible gazebo will cost approximately $5,000, while $25,000 will be used to purchase and install a new children’s play structure and equipment, including a new seesaw and a restored baseball area.
A golf tournament fundraiser is also scheduled for August 8 to raise funds for the project, which could enable staff to install additional equipment. Township staff hope to raise an additional $15,000.
Hoffman said that Augustin Larocque Park is an essential recreational location that contributes significantly to the quality of life for residents of all ages. He inspected the park on May 8, 2025, evaluating the functionality of current equipment.
Hoffman found that the ice rink, gazebo, pétanque court, the information panel, and other wooden structures were either non-operational or posed safety risks for users, requiring their removal by the township. Some equipment dates back to 1975, with the swing set being installed as recently as 1991.
Residents were pleased with the amount of work already invested in the project and encouraged the township to ensure greenery and trees were also part of the refurbishment plan.
A resident commented that having a paved walking path around the park would add to the accessibility of the site for senior residents.
Hoffman expects the refurbishment to be completed by the end of September, just in time for residents to enjoy the new amenities this fall.
