The City of Richmond has received approval to sell Mitchell Island property currently designated as park space in what will eventually be a land swap that will bring more park space to the city centre.

The city is expected to sign off on the sale of 11191 Twigg Place, transferring the par to River Road Investments Ltd for $5.125 million.

The city is expected to put to proceeds toward the purchase of property at 7080 River Rd., located on the south side of the Fraser River, east of Gilbert Rd.  The long term plan is for that property and others aquired by the city to form an expansion of the Middle Arm Waterfront Park to 37 acres.

There are still a few properties remaining that the city has not yet purchased but they are currently working with the businesses in the area.  The city doesn't want to push anybody out, but as the properties become available for sale, or the owners express interest in relocating the city will work with them in an orderly transition.

The city has been developing the park for some time including upgrading the greenway along the dyke prior to the 2010 Olympics.  More work is planned for a new section closer to the Richmond Olympic Oval that fronts the River Green development underway.

Eventually River Rd. will be re-routed along the old CPR right-of-way to the south to accomodate the expanded park.  I like the idea of expanding park areas in the city. What are your thoughts?