A public information meeting for a new park that will provide access to two popular surf breaks will take place tonight (Thursday, May 27) at the Cow Bay Community Hall beginning at 7 p.m.

Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM) will present a proposed plan for the park, which will be built in phases, according to District 8 Councillor Jackie Barkhouse.

Construction of the first phase, which will likely include a parking area as well as a boardwalk, could be begin as early as late summer, said Barkhouse. A second phase could commence next spring.

The park will provide easy access to two premier surf spots known as Minutes and Backyards, both of which have become difficult to access in recent years due to private property concerns.

Barkhouse was instrumental in persuading HRM council to purchase a small vacant wetland in Cow Bay for the park.

“I think it’s the right thing to do,” she said. “So much of our property is in private hands. We’re Canada’s ocean playground and we’re making it difficult for people to play.”

The goal of Thursday night’s meeting is to get public feedback on HRM’s proposed plans for the new park, which will welcome all visitors, including surfers, kayakers, bikers, hikers, bird watchers, tourists, etc.