Cumberland Park in Chilliwack has been saved – for now.
The unofficial park, located on a residential lot in Sardis, has been taken off the market, a representative from the City of Chilliwack stated on June 18.
"We can confirm that due to the slow real estate market, the city will not be proceeding with the sale of 44692 Cumberland Avenue at this time," Jaimie Tocher, communications assistant with the city, wrote in an email to The Chilliwack Progress.
Neighbour Rob Brooks said he, his family and the neighbours were grateful to city council, and he thanked them for caring and making a difference.
"We’re so thankful to the mayor and city councillors for choosing to protect Cumberland Park – a green space that means a lot to so many of us. Their decision means kids today, and those growing up in the future, will still be able to run, play, and enjoy this beautiful spot," Brooks said.
The property was purchased back in 1991 by the City of Chilliwack, and went up for sale on May 2 with a price tag of $679,900.
For 34 years, the treed lot, nestled between two houses on a cul-de-sac has sat vacant.
"To some, it may appear to be just an empty lot. But to the families who live nearby, it’s a place where kids ride bikes, build forts, explore nature, and experience the kind of free, outdoor play that is becoming increasingly rare in today’s screen-filled world," said resident Jilleen Anderson, back in May.
She, Brooks and other neighbours started a petition to save the lot from being sold. As of June 18, 743 people had signed the online petition.
The park is home to 16 mature trees, is a "vital" green space for kids, provides a cool space in hot summer months for people to walk dogs, and the informal dirt track on the property provides a "unique and safe environment for children to learn and practice bike riding," Brooks added.
"It’s more than land – it’s freedom, friendship, and childhood in its purest form," Anderson said.
Brooks said council's decision wouldn’t have happened without the "strong support" from the community.
"Thanks to everyone who wrote in, signed petitions, came to meetings, and raised their voices. You helped make this happen," Brooks said. "Tonight, some pretty excited kids are going to bed knowing they were part of something important. They saw that speaking up can lead to real change – a lesson that’ll stay with them long after they grow-up."
