After shutting the park down over safety concerns, the City of Windsor is ready to reopen Black Oak Heritage Park.
More than two years ago, city officials closed the park to the public because of construction on the Gordie Howe International Bridge plaza and a perimeter road. The dog park was also shut down but will reopen until a new dog park is ready at Malden Park.
It was fenced off last December to protect the park's fragile ecosystem.
Although construction continues on the bridge plaza, city officials plan to reopen the park at 8am on Saturday, March 30. During the build, Broadway St. and the park will continue to shut down temporarily as needed.
The south section of the park will remain closed to users. There is a municipal bylaw to protect species in that area and trails there are to be avoided.
The park's Black Oak Savannah is one of the largest in Ontario but is also one of the most endangered habitats in Canada. So, if you see anyone in that part of the park, you are asked to call 311.
This week, parks staff will remove any hazards along the designated trail and erect signs to guide visitors away from the more environmentally-sensitive areas of the park. The path is reserved for activities like hiking, bird watching, photography, and cycling.