Project Update- March 2024

The City of Burlington has completed the review of all registered and drop-in programs offered through the Recreation, Community and Culture Department. Over the past several months, residents had the opportunity to provide input through an online survey.

Here are some of the findings from the survey:

• 874 participants were surveyed between May 1 – Oct. 16, 2023.
• Current or past program participants reported an 80% or higher satisfaction rate in 14 out of 15 categories. Servicing people with disabilities remained at 70% satisfaction. Staff have been increasing inclusive programming throughout the year, including the addition of inclusive camp offerings and a sensory-friendly swim.
• “More Availability” of programs could also be improved through:
  • Offering more evening and weekend programming for our 19+ demographic
  • More locations of programs especially in Aldershot and North Burlington
  • More program spots in popular programs such as in aquatics and certain sports
  • More variety of programs to include fundamental sport and art programs as well as diverse programming options (i.e. language classes and Bollywood)

The results and themes of the data have already started to be used to improve recreational and cultural programming, including the addition of fundamental youth sport and art programs for the Winter season. Staff will continue to explore community investment opportunities in underutilized spaces, complete a fulsome review of our rates and fees, in addition will review our fee assistance program to continue to better serve our residents.

Thank you to all everyone who participated in the survey. Your contributions will help make Burlington’s recreation and cultural programming more fun, desirable, inclusive and accessible.