Public Drop-In Session for Riverview Park and Zoo Accessible Playground

Peterborough, ON – Residents are invited to learn about proposed upgrades to the accessible playground at Riverview Park and Zoo and provide feedback to help shape the project. 

A public drop-in session will take place on Thursday, April 23, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Riverview Park and Zoo, Rotary Education Centre, 1300 Water St. N. Project staff will be available to answer questions and gather feedback from residents on the proposed accessibility improvements. 

A public survey is also available at connectptbo.ca/zoo. Paper copies are available at City Hall, 500 George St. N. The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026. 

Accessible playground upgrades are part of a multi-year project focused on reducing steep slopes and improving access to the existing playground.  

Riverview Park and Zoo, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Peterborough, is working to raise $1.5 million to bring this vision to life. Project ROAR, a community-driven fundraising campaign, will support the development of an accessible, inclusive playground. 

“This project is about making sure every visitor to Riverview Park and Zoo has the opportunity to play, explore and feel included while enjoying the playground,” said Community Services co-chairs Councillor Lesley Parnell and Councillor Alex Bierk in a joint statement. “We encourage residents to share their ideas to help shape a space that reflects the needs of our community and supports a more accessible and welcoming experience for everyone.” 

Additional project information, including updates, a site plan and a summary of survey findings, will be posted at connectptbo.ca/zoo. 

For more information or to ask questions, call 705-742-7777, ext. 1829. 

Information on the Project ROAR fundraising campaign is available at peterboroughrotary.ca/page/rotary-accessible-playground.  

Donations to support the Playground Accessibility Project can be made at riverviewparkandzoo.ca/support-us/donate.

About Riverview Park and Zoo   
Riverview Park and Zoo, located in Peterborough, Ontario, is owned and operated by the City of Peterborough. It is Canada’s only free-admission zoo accredited by Canada’s Accredited Zoos and Aquariums (CAZA), meeting national standards for animal care and welfare, conservation, education and safety. The Zoo is supported through the City’s water service fees, along with essential donations, sponsorships and community fundraising initiatives. Open year-round, Riverview Park and Zoo spans 55 acres and is home to over 40 species across more than 20 animal habitats, offering educational and recreational opportunities and supporting wildlife and environmental conservation.