In addition to getting a new playground and splash pad, Carillon Park in Vanier will be turned into Ottawa’s first Sponge Park thanks to a Ward 12 CIL investment of $860,000.
A Sponge Park is designed to better absorb and manage rainwater where it falls. “Sponge” features, including permeable paving, playground mulch, sand and planted bioswales, absorb rain and stormwater runoff.
Permeable surfaces allow water to infiltrate into the ground slowly and naturally, help replenish the water table, and reduce stress on the City’s stormwater infrastructure.
Proposed sponge features at Carillon Park include: permeable paving to help manage runoff and reduce heat retention; a planted bioswale to capture and filter rainwater; and
native, rain-loving perennials that thrive in wet conditions.
Where possible, existing mature trees will be retained to minimize soil disturbance, reduce carbon impacts, and promote long-term carbon sequestration.
Together, these improvements will help reduce localized flooding, lower surface temperatures, and create a more resilient neighbourhood.
This post is also available in French.
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