April Recreation, Parks, and Facilities update

About Severn’s Recreation, Parks and Facilities department

Severn has started on an exciting journey to enhance recreational opportunities for our community. We want to transform Severn into a vibrant hub of activity where residents of all ages can engage in quality programs while enjoying our indoor and outdoor spaces. 

Staff profile

Stephanie Van Luven joined Severn earlier this year as the department's first Recreation Programmer. With over a decade of experience in recreation, Stephanie brings passion and expertise to her role. Starting as a camp counsellor in 2010, she then progressed to the role of Program Coordinator for the City of Orillia, where she grew and expanded her skills for over three years. Stephanie is excited to start building new and diverse programs for Severn.

Do you have an idea for a new program or questions about an existing one? Send an email to Stephanie or phone 705-325-2315 x236. 

Register now for our new JumpFit program

In this 45-minute inclusive JumpFit class for beginners, participants will begin with a stretch and warm-up followed by skill-building and a work-out incorporating a jump rope. Participants will end the class with a cool down and stretch.

Program details

• Where: Washago Community Centre, 4361 Hamilton Street
• Fees: Adult $90.00 plus HST / Senior $67.50 plus HST
• When: May 8 to June 12, 2024
• Day and time: Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

You can drop off your registration form and payment at our Administration Office (1024 Hurlwood Lane, Severn) between the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. We accept cash, debit, and cheque payments. If you arrive after hours place the form and payment in the drop box located to the left of the front doors to our office.

You can also register at:

• Washago Community Centre, 4361 Hamilton Street
• Phone: 705-689-6424
• 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Payment options at the Washago Community Centre are exact cash or cheque.

Embrace the outdoors

As the weather gets warmer, it's a great time to head outdoors and enjoy Severn's many parks, facilities, and playgrounds. Outdoor activities like walking, jogging, or playing sports not only improve physical health but also can reduce stress and boost your mood. Recreation activities also offer opportunities for socializing, connecting with nature, and appreciating the environment. Whether you're playing sports, walking your dog or relaxing in the park, there is something for everyone in Severn.

Skate parks

Located within the Coldwater Fairgrounds (11 Michael Anne Drive), the Coldwater Skate Park provides an array of ramps, rails, and obstacles for individuals of all skill levels. Severn also offers a half pipe and BMX pump track at the Washago Centennial Park (3398 Quetton Street). 

The parks are open from sunrise to sunset daily, weather permitting. Please observe these hours and avoid using the facilities after dark. Safety is our top priority, so please remember to wear appropriate protective gear, including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads. For more information, visit severn.ca/skateparks.

For your own safety, please ensure to follow park rules while enjoying our facilities.

Dog park

Severn is home to one designated dog park in Washago Centennial Park (3398 Quetton Street). This enclosed area offers a secure environment for dogs to roam off-leash and encourages both canine and community socialization and connection. Remember to always pay close attention to your dog when using the park, and please use the waste bags provided to clean up after your pet. If you would like to report a concern related to dogs, please visit severn.ca/reportaconcern.

Pickleball continues to grow in popularity

Pickleball enthusiasts, rejoice! The beloved sport is back, as are drop-in programs at the Coldwater Community Centre (11 Michael Anne Drive) and the Washago Community Centre (4361 Hamilton Street). This summer, we're adding a new evening pickleball drop-in on Thursday nights starting June 13 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in Coldwater.

No need to register, simply show up and play. We provide all the equipment you need, but feel free to bring your own paddle if you have one. 

Schedules

Coldwater Community Centre

Daytime drop-in

• When: May 14 to September 12, 2024
• Days: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
• Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Fees: $2.50

 Evening drop-in

• When: June 13 to September 5, 2024
• Day: Thursdays
• Time: 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Fees: $2.50

Washago Community Centre

• Dates: May 13 to September 13, 2024
• Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays
• Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• Fees: Free

Cycling in Severn

Severn is a great place to cycle, for both beginners and advanced riders alike. Check out Cycle Simcoe and view our cycling maps to find cycling trails throughout our area. Try the Carlyon Loop, the Coldwater Course, the Upper Big Chute Loop for more of a challenge, or enjoy the Uhthoff Trail. Interested in a healthy cycling challenge? Learn more about the Sustainable Spokes Healthy Folks Cycling Challenge on our Community Calendar. Led by the Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit and Sustainable Orillia, Severn residents are eligible and encouraged to participate. 

News and upcoming opportunities

Have your say on recreation in Severn this June

Stay tuned for your chance to #haveyoursay about recreation programs and services in June. This survey will allow our community to tell us what they need to increase their participation in future recreation programs. 

Outdoor sports court update

Work continues on our new outdoor sports courts in Coldwater, Washago, and Marchmont, with openings set to be announced soon. Once complete, you can expect to find two pickleball courts, a tennis court, and a basketball court, providing ample opportunities for recreation and competition in Coldwater and Washago. Marchmont's court will offer one pickleball court, a tennis court, and a basketball court, offering residents and visitors access to a top-notch sporting amenity.  

Port Severn Property Feasibility Study

Severn is working in partnership with Lakehead University to complete a feasibility study for a property in Port Severn that was donated to the municipality. This initial phase of the project has included  research and stakeholder consultation to help evaluate the potential for the property to be redeveloped as a centre for arts, culture, recreation and/or heritage programming. Severn held a public open house on April 24 at Rawley Resort, Spa and Marina to share these results and talk about next steps. The PowerPoint presentation from this event can be viewed on the Port Severn Property Feasibility Study page. Contact us to learn more about this project. 

Culture and Recreation Advisory Committee 

The Culture and Recreation Advisory Committee advises Council about culture and recreational programming in Severn. Meetings are held virtually six times a year on the second Tuesday of the month. You can learn more abut the members and review agendas and minutes on our Council portal page. 

Stay informed

Stay up-top-date on municipal projects and programs by subscribing to updates at severn.ca/subscribe.

Staff contact