Dear Editor,
This year, 2021, marks an anniversary for the Terra Nova Rural Park and the Terra Nova Natural Area.
Twenty-five years ago, during the 1996 municipal election, Richmondites were asked if they were willing to borrow the enormous sum — at that time — of $28.5 million to acquire land in the area for public purposes.
No one could have predicted how important that decision would become for Richmond.
Now, many years later, the purchased land has become two of Richmond’s signature parks, the Terra Nova Rural Park and the Terra Nova Natural Area.
Having the land available made it possible for city staff to be creative in how the area has evolved. The two parks have won nine major awards for innovation, restoration and excellence.
The effort to save the Terra Nova lands began in the mid-1980s with a petition started by a former resident of the area who realized that the lands, then farmland, were more valuable as undeveloped space than the subdivision that was planned for the area.
Many supporters jumped on board, distributing the petition, fundraising, sending letters to the municipality, attending record-breaking public hearings, and finally, voting in 1996.
These parks are living proof that each person’s vote does count.
If you haven’t been to, or can’t visit, the Terra Nova parks, the City of Richmond’s website has an excellent video. Find it at www.Richmond.ca > Parks, Trails & Cycling > Parks > Signature Parks > Terra Nova Rural Park. Scroll down to “Terra Nova Story Map,” and “click here to view.”
Marion Smith
RICHMOND
