Advertisement

High water levels may push LaSalle to move Strawberry Festival to Vollmer complex

The annual Strawberry Festival in LaSalle may be moved this year to the Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex if town council decides to go ahead with what administration is recommending.

Its usual location, Gil Maure Park, has been affected by high water levels resulting from April and May rains.

Portions of the road nearby have water pooling and there is puddling throughout the park, according to a report to council.

"There's no forecast that the water levels are going to go down in the next month," said Coun. Jeff Renaud.

"So at this point, we have standing water in the park, we have water over the roads at times down by the water, as well as water over the boat ramp."

Stacey Janzer/CBC
Stacey Janzer/CBC

The festival is outdoors, complete with carnival rides. Vollmer, which Renaud said is designed for festivals, will be able to accommodate the stage, outdoor vendors and carnival rides.

In the report, staff recommends shuttle buses pick up and drop off people throughout the festival, which can help alleviate parking congestion and concerns.

Another option is to partner with Transit Windsor to add a shuttle service during fireworks.

The report said even with the change in location, the parade date and route wouldn't be changed and will remain on Front Road on Saturday morning.

Staff estimates that the relocation could cost roughly $45,000. Most of the cost is from new electrical and water requirements.

Renaud said the move would only be for this year and that there are no plans for the town to move this festival permanently.

Town council is meeting Thursday to make a decision.