FAQs

Yes. Detailed water testing and analysis was completed as part of the feasibility study in 2025. This testing showed that the water in Hopkins Lake is primarily ground water, is not connected to or affected by the nearby wetlands, and is safe for swimming.

The feasibility study also tested a long-standing concern that the lake is full of sediment, and would require large-scale dredging before it could be used again. The lake mapping and sediment measurements did not support that belief. The lakebed is described as sand and gravel, with soft sediment that varies but is generally thin, including less than 0.2 metres near the former Jaycee Beach area.

The lake is generally about 2 metres deep, except for dredged areas area the former fire water access where the lake is up to 4 metres deep.

Construction could start as early as the 2027 season, provided the project receives approval to proceed after the detailed design portion.

This is currently unknown, but will be determined as part of the detailed design process. The design process will identify the needs and wants of community members and project stakeholders, and provide estimated costing back to City Council to review and ultimately approve.

The following costs have been approved for this project so far:

• $41,222.00 (plus applicable taxes) for the feasibility study.
• Up to $250,000.00 for the detailed design portion of the project.

Additional project funding would be provided as part of project approval following the detailed design phase.

Natural bodies of water provide great areas for swimming and public enjoyment, and significantly less expensive to build and maintain than outdoor pools. While there are many outdoor pools and lakes in the Parkland area, not everyone has the means to travel to them, either on their own or with their families.

Redeveloping Jaycee Beach would provide a local option for outdoor swimming, while balancing fiscal responsibility with the resources and funding available.

The dog park will be included as part of the overall project design. The proximity of the dog park to the lake may pose a concern regarding water quality and contamination, especially if designed as a swimming area.

Further review and discussion with community members, stakeholders, and dog park users will occur as part of the project engagement process.

The lake revitalization project is not anticipated to interfere with use of the existing ball diamond facilities or other amenities that are currently found in and around the Jaycee Beach area.

Park and beach amenities will be reviewed as part of the project engagement process. The options are endless, but will be confined to approved budget, and the needs and wants of the community. If you have suggestions on amenities to include, please add them to the Project Idea List found on the main project page.