The Minoru Lakes District has had a major makeover on its seven-acre site.
I hadn’t been to Minoru Lakes for several years, so the extent and quality of the new developments came as a pleasant surprise.
The original Lakes were constructed in the 1970s.
After extensive construction, the new area is beautiful, a well thought-out upgrade that is ideal for walking or just sitting to admire the views. The brilliant design incorporates several permanent lounge chairs and benches.
Signage and lighting have been improved and the islands — once isolated— are now accessible to the public.
There are also colourful bridges that encourage a circular walking tour and beautiful Japanese cherry trees that border one of the main walkways.
The initial project added a new pond, a cascading waterfall, boardwalk, bridges and pathways. All of these are well integrated with the existing trees and plantings.
This first phase cost $3.1 million. It improved water quality, reduced water loss and established new environments for plants, birds and other wildlife.
A second phase is now underway to add a new stormwater retention pond and enhance general environmental sustainability.
The City of Richmond is estimating this second phase will cost $2.5 million and be completed in 2024.
The city also advises, in their latest update from March 18, that: “Over the next two months, from late March to late May, maintenance and minor repairs will be performed around the edges of the lakes. This will involve draining the water from the lakes and use of light equipment.
"Once the work is complete, the lakes will be filled back up. Disruption to public access will be minimized during this period and the community is welcome to continue enjoying the lakes area, while the work is taking place.”
More information on the process, goals and objectives of the Lakes evolution is available on the city's website.
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