Ontario Construction News staff writer
The revitalization of one of Windsor’s most historic neighbourhoods continued this week as Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens and Ward 5 Councillor Ed Sleiman announced the completion of major upgrades to Garry Dugal Park.
More than $400,000 has been spent to enhance and modernize many of the recreation facilities at the 44-year-old park at the heart of Ford City.
The 2021 Garry Dugal Park improvements include the following:
- Addition of two shade sails over a large concrete pad to expand the sheltered meeting and activities space for community groups
- Refurbishment of the gazebo, including new paint, additional LED lighting and an upgraded new electrical panel to give community groups access to more power outlets for cookers and sound systems
- Three new picnic tables, one under the gazebo and two under the shade sails
- New fencing installed to separate the soccer pitch from the shaded sitting area
- Relocation of 150 commemorative bricks, now placed near the gazebo.
“These improvements are part of a broader regeneration kick started by strategic policies of council to make Ford City a more welcoming and attractive neighbourhood where residents and visitors can feel safe and have a sense of belonging,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens.
“From investing in better parks and streetscaping to offering tax incentives and grants that attract new investments, I am proud of all the actions council has taken to transform this distinct neighbourhood.”
Additional recent upgrades, completed in 2018, 2019 and 2020, include:
- Installation of a large, modern, fully-accessible play structure with rubber surface
- Installation of new, fully accessible swing set
- Renovated surfaces on basketball and tennis courts
- Two new accessible benches
- New wave-like bicycle rack
- Removal of an old BMX hill to expand the green space and better connect the east and west ends of the park
Improvements reflect City Council’s commitment to providing safe, inclusive and welcoming outdoor recreation amenities that provide new opportunities for engagement and encourage residents to stay healthy and active.
The City of Windsor’s capital budget earmarks $1.6 billion over the next decade, including $170 million in 2021, to improve public infrastructure.
Among the $170 million is $17.5 million allocated toward upgrading Windsor’s parks and recreation facilities as council fulfills its vision of maintaining a high quality of life for all residents by delivering recreation services effectively and efficiently across the community.
“Public spaces like Garry Dugal Park are essential to creating healthy, vibrant communities. That is what we have built in Ford City,” said Councillor Ed Sleiman.
“The incremental upgrades we have made to the park have come together to make it one of Windsor’s best-kept secrets.”