City of Woodstock, Ontario

Reeves Community Complex

From open field to destination park—see how this park became a hub for play, connection, and community.

In April 2024, the City of Woodstock issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the design and construction of a large destination park at 347 Finkle Street in Woodstock.

As a turn-key project, our responsibilities spanned from initial excavation to final completion. The scope included a shade pavilion, playground, splash pad, a paver area and surrounding concrete pathways. Drawing on our expertise in designing these elements and our trusted network of skilled subcontractors, Openspace confidently bid on the project as the General Contractor.

Installed Summer 2024

Objectives

A new gathering place, built from the ground up

With a budget of $1,275,000.00, the goal was clear: transform an empty field into a vibrant destination park for an active community. The blank canvas gave Openspace the perfect opportunity to showcase our design expertise and bring a bold, engaging vision to life.

Process

Designing a special space with a collaborative team

When we were selected for this project, our goal was clear: create a park experience that stands out. From the very beginning, we approached every detail with care and intentionality—assembling the right construction partners and crafting a design that makes the space truly special. Our design philosophy emphasizes unique features that distinguish this park from others in the area.

At the heart of the park is a spacious 32' x 40' gable-end shelter—a functional centrepiece and welcoming gathering space where visitors can relax and fully enjoy their time outdoors.

Playground Design 

The playground was designed with inclusivity at its core. Featuring 100% accessible EPDM rubber surfacing in a two-tone pattern, it ensures safe, seamless navigation for mobility devices while enhancing safety and playability for all users.

Splash Pad Design 

The splash pad delivers a “wow” factor, anchored by Waterplay’s iconic “Mega Soaker” as its signature feature. Every element is designed to engage visitors of all ages while creating a fun, interactive water experience.

Building a strong foundation for lasting fun

Our skilled sub-contractors handled earthworks, grading, paver installation, and concrete work with precision and care, ensuring the park’s structural elements are both durable and visually appealing—perfectly complementing the overall design vision.

Even well-planned projects can present challenges. On this site, the primary issue arose during the augering of the shelter footings, where soil conditions 5–6 feet below finished grade required additional attention. Working closely with the City and their consultant immediately upon identifying the unstable soil, we implemented a solution that included added granular material and geo-grid reinforcement. By addressing the challenge proactively, we kept the project on schedule and ensured all elements met the highest standards of performance and longevity.

Staying connected, staying ahead of schedule

Clear and consistent communication was key to making this project a success. Bi-weekly site meetings and regular email updates kept everyone aligned with the City of Woodstock’s vision from start to finish.

The project was awarded in early June, with our purchase order arriving on June 27th. By July 9th, we had the site excavated and construction underway. While the City extended the completion deadline to December 2024 to account for the tight timeline, we’re proud to say we wrapped up final commissioning in the last week of October—well ahead of schedule.

Key Features

Some of the highlights…

The playground incorporates engaging components that encourage play, exploration, and accessibility for all ages and abilities.

Chico Inicio

This foliage-themed structure encourages exploration and sensory development, with a low-level slide that is perfect for children ages 1 - 3.

Xyra-45

A single- or double-rider spinner plate offering dynamic movement.

Hammock Retreat

A perfect place to hang out, cool off, and socialize with peers.

Creative Spaces

Loaded with colour and texture, this creative space encourages social interaction, while supporting fine motor skill development and cognitive growth.

Smiles

At the heart of every playground we build, there’s a smile.

Volte Climber

Equipped with numerous cables, nets , strips, and handles, the Volte offers a real challenge to climbers looking for adventure. Full of different textures and unprescribed routes it has quickly become a favourite!

To go along with the modern nature splashpad theme, we incorporated:

“Sparx” the Dragonfly

Landed softly on a blade of grass, Sparx displays translucent wings that mimic a real dragonfly while a soft shower of water falls from its tail.

“Flutterby” the Tiny Butterfly

Rotates 360 degrees for toddlers to explore water while improving fine and gross motor skills.

Fish

A unique laminar water effect, social and interactive with spinning fish 360 degrees.

“Flutter” the Butterfly

Impresses with a spectacular display of water from its AquaLume wings.

Floral Features

A variety of floral-inspired features such as the Blue Bottle, Corn Poppy, Leaflet and Polypalm enhance the park’s natural ambiance.

Ground Sprays

Seventeen ground sprays with a variety of water displays—perfect for waterplayers of all ages.

"We couldn't be more thrilled with the playground, spray pad, and pavilion built by Openspace Solutions Inc. From start to finish, the entire process was seamless and professional. The team was extremely knowledgeable, helping us choose the best materials and design for our space. The playground is not only beautiful but also incredibly safe, accessible, durable, and engaging for kids of all ages. The spray pad is a hit with families, and will provide hours of water fun, and the pavilion offers a perfect spot for shade and relaxation. They completed the project on time and within budget, with exceptional attention to detail. The quality of their work speaks for itself — we've received numerous compliments from parents and children alike. Highly recommend Openspace Solutions Inc. for anyone looking to create a fun, safe, and long-lasting recreational space!"

Chris Kern, Supervisor, Parks and Forestry Parks Department, City of Woodstock

End Results

An exceptional park design that brings everyone together

The Woodstock destination park has become a vibrant hub for the community, offering an inclusive and thoughtfully designed space for everyone to enjoy. With its unique features and high-quality craftsmanship, the park provides a place for connection, recreation and relaxation. By addressing challenges proactively and working closely with stakeholders, the project was delivered on time and exceeded expectations, creating a lasting asset for the community to cherish.