February 1, 2016 - Residents are being encouraged to share their views in an online survey to help shape recreation in the city as part of the Fit Together - Recreation & Facilities Master Plan project. The Plan will guide municipal investment in recreational services, programs and facilities over the next 15 years.

The survey is available online until March 1, and will allow citizens and visitors with an opportunity to give feedback on their experiences and future interests in local recreation.

"The Community Services Department will be gathering ideas from the general public, recreation user groups, facility users, businesses, and special interest groups to help shape the Recreation & Facilities Master Plan," said Callie Hemsworth, Coordinator of Planning, Projects and Development.

"It will be a flexible planning document that encompasses a wide range of programming and experiences that encourage a sense of belonging and promote physical, social and mental well-being."

The Plan's name, Fit Together, is in alignment with the 2015-2018 Corporate Strategic Plans strong focus on encouraging healthy lifestyles through accessible and inclusive recreation programming and services for all.

"The recently released Canadian Infrastructure Report Card places sport and recreation facilities, along with roads, municipal buildings and public transit, as being most in need of investment to combat poor physical condition," said Jonathan Hack, Director of the project's consulting team Sierra Planning & Management.

A public open house will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 6-8 pm at the Oliver Road Community Centre. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain more information on the planning process, and to provide input on recreational priorities.

For more information and to complete the survey, visit www.thunderbay.ca/fittogether

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Contact: Lou Morrow, Manager, Corporate Projects, 684-2346
               Callie Hemsworth, Coordinator of Planning, Projects & Development, 625-3791