Vaughan’s SmartParks Recognized for Excellence in Innovation
The City of Vaughan’s SmartParks program is being recognized for its transformative approach to reporting issues at our parks and trails. By simply scanning a QR code with a mobile device, park users have instant access to an easy-to-use digital reporting tool for requesting municipal services like litter collection, equipment repair, grass cutting and so much more.
The City’s Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Operations department received the Innovation Award from Parks and Recreation Ontario for this modern, resident-focused approach to Service Excellence. This accomplishment was recognized by Mayor Steven Del Duca and Members of Council during a special ceremonial presentation at the Sept. 15 Committee of the Whole (1) meeting.
The Parks and Recreation Ontario Awards of Excellence recognize and honour individuals and organizations by highlighting outstanding innovations and achievements that advance the sector. The Innovation Award recognizes the contributions of high-performing individuals, teams and organizations in developing innovative or unique approaches to efficiently and effectively meeting a community’s needs.
Since its introduction in May 2024, the SmartParks program has seen incredible growth and success. By June 2025, it had expanded from its original 15 locations to include all City-owned parks across Vaughan. Since then, staff have received 137 service requests, with 48 in 2026 so far.
Learn more about the City’s SmartParks program at vaughan.ca/SmartParks.
QUOTES
“I am pleased to recognize the City of Vaughan’s Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Operations department for earning the Innovation Award from Parks and Recreation Ontario. This is a prestigious honour and shows the leadership, dedication to Service Excellence and forward-thinking work within this team. Through SmartParks, which makes it easier for residents to request services directly from Vaughan parks, the department has discovered an innovative way to enhance the customer experience. I want to extend my sincere congratulations to everyone who worked on this project and continues to contribute to its success. Your collaboration demonstrated what can happen when talented people unite around a common goal and put residents at the centre of everything they do.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
“Congratulations to the City’s Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Operations team for winning this impressive award from Parks and Recreation Ontario. This recognition reflects the spirit of innovation within the Public Works portfolio. Innovation is never the result of one person or one team alone. It comes from collaboration, creativity, problem-solving and a shared commitment to making things better. SmartParks is a shining example of that commitment, using technology to connect residents directly to City services and helping us respond more efficiently to park-related concerns. Thank you for your hard work, and congratulations!”
- Zoran Postic, City Manager
“SmartParks is a wonderful program that makes it easier for residents to connect with us and report concerns in our parks. This idea has had a significant impact, improving reporting accuracy, speeding up response times and ensuring matters get to our staff in real time so we can provide exceptional service. Congratulations to everyone in Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Operations on this well‑deserved award, and thank you for continuing to improve the resident experience.”
- Emilie Alderman, Deputy City Manager, Public Works
QUICK FACTS
The City’s Parks, Forestry and Horticulture Operations department has been selected as the recipient of the Parks and Recreation Ontario Awards of Excellence Innovation Award for SmartParks.
Mayor Steven Del Duca and Members of Council celebrated this outstanding achievement at the Sept. 15 Committee of the Whole (1) meeting.
SmartParks allows park users to report issues at Vaughan parks by simply scanning a QR code with their mobile device. These codes are located near entrances, amenities and sports facilities at all Vaughan parks.
SmartParks was introduced in May 2024 at 15 City of Vaughan park locations. Since then, it has expanded to include all City-owned parks across Vaughan.
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