Kingston parks to offer free sports equipment through new pilot program

By Christena Lawrie, CFRC's Broadcast Journalist and Local Journalism Initiative Reporter.

Kingston residents will soon be able to borrow sports equipment for free at local parks, following Council’s approval of a new pilot program launching this spring.

The initiative will see at least 30 self-serve equipment lockers installed in neighbourhood parks through a partnership with Equip Sport, with funding provided by Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities. Using a mobile app, residents will be able to access recreational gear at no cost, encouraging more accessible outdoor play.

The program comes at no cost to the City, with equipment, installation, and maintenance fully covered. 

Council approved the motion unanimously. Staff will report back in late 2026 with usage data and a recommendation on whether to expand the program.

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