A rec centre on wheels? Does the Sault need this?

A 10-year parks and recreation master plan approved this month by city council is suggesting Sault Ste. Marie needs one more youth centre.

"Youth were a key demographic identified during consultations as in need of recreation opportunities," the new plan states.

Sault Ste. Marie currently has two casual indoor spaces for youth.

One is at the Northern Community Centre (NCC). The other, just added recently, is at the former International Order of Odd Fellows Lodge at 124 Dennis Street.

"Youth (typically considered those between ages 13 – 18, but could extend beyond that range) have many opportunities for recreation including a number of organized sports leagues, park and trails for casual use, and two casual indoor spaces," the plan states.

"However, recognizing that sports can be prohibitively expensive for some families, making them inaccessible for youth, and recognizing the importance of health, well-being, positive influences and guidance on outcomes for youth, youth remain a key focus demographic for recreation."

"The city should plan to provide a third drop-in free space for youth in another area of the city with a high population of youth and/or near a high school.

"The space should be open immediately following school hours, provide free and low-cost snacks, games, and access to resources."

"Another approach would be to adapt the space at NCC so that it is open earlier, which could be a temporary solution until a third space is provided. An additional benefit of opening the NCC space to youth earlier in the day is the opportunity for intergenerational programming, and simply having the chance to socialize across generations, rather than segregating age groups to their own areas.

The master plan highlights another option: a rec centre on wheels like one introduced in the Town of Innisfil, Ontario.

"The mobile youth centre is a truck that features various equipment (e.g., skate parks, skate equipment, spike ball, basketball, life-sized board games, etc.) that are free to use for all ages, and travels to different parks during the summer.

Admission is free and is open to kids of all ages, but anyone under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

The mobile centre is funded by the Town of Innisfil with provincial assistance.

The Sault's master plan also suggests adding a full-time youth programmer to lead youth outreach and program development.

The 10-year plan is considered a 'living' document to be updated and adjusted through the city's annual budget planning process.

City council will have final say in what recommendations are accepted.