Local officials announced there will soon be a new waterfront community park on Salt Spring Island, thanks to a donation of roughly 1.5 acres of land near Fulford.
Property for a park on Morningside Road was donated by the family of Ruth Baldwin, according to Capital Regional District (CRD) officials, offering open views and direct access to the ocean via a small beach. Baldwin passed away in 2009; in a statement, the family said she had loved the property, and would be “thrilled to see it being used as a community park,” they said, “for all to enjoy.”
Local Community Commission (LCC) chair Earl Rook said the parcel was a meaningful donation that aligned with the island’s strategic plans — specifically goals surrounding increased public access to lakes and ocean; CRD Parks on Salt Spring are among regional district services administered by the LCC.
“We are deeply grateful for this generous donation,” said Rook, “which will provide lasting benefits to the Salt Spring Island community. This oceanfront property offers a rare opportunity to protect shoreline access and natural beauty for generations to come.”
Planning for the park is underway, according to CRD staff; in a statement Thursday, Sept. 25, officials said a community park covenant would be registered on the donated portion of 215 Morningside Road. With that protected status, according to the CRD, the land “will remain a publicly accessible space that supports shoreline access and environmental preservation.”