Ontario Construction News staff writer
Oshawa is creating a new lakefront park next year, to be named in honour of iconic Member of Parliament and long-time New Democratic Party leader Ed Broadbent.
Construction is expected to start in 2022 and be completed by the end of the year. Plans for the park include a Human Rights Garden in recognition of Mr. Broadbent as a champion and advocate for human rights, as well as passive recreational areas.
“The development and naming of this park commemorates Mr. Broadbent’s legacy and service to Canada and our city and we are excited to see our vision take shape,” said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. “The Ed Broadbent Waterfront Park will be a place where community members can come to reflect, feel inspired and find peace while enjoying the natural beauty of Oshawa’s waterfront.”
Broadbent, who was born in Oshawa, was first elected to Parliament as the NDP Member for Oshawa in 1968 and served as the MP until 1989. From 1975 to 1989, he was also Leader of the New Democratic Party.
“The city is looking forward to input from the community on this important addition to our parks system. Please tell us what you think, so we can shape a plan for the park which meets community hopes and expectations,” said Rick Kerr, the Chair of Community Services Committee.
The 35-acre waterfront site is surrounded by various land uses including industrial, the Port of Oshawa, low density neighbourhoods and parks. The eastern half of the site is the former marina and redevelopment will require an extensive approval process and an environmental assessment for changes to the shoreline area.
The city has completed remediation at the site to meet environmental requirements, including installing clean soil and gravel caps which must remain in place.
“Seeing this project continue to advance by pairing the Human Rights Garden with Mr. Broadbent’s long legacy of fighting for greater social equity in Canada and globally is truly exciting. They are perfect companions for this waterfront park,” said Derek Giberson, Vice-Chair of the Community Services Committee.
A linear woodlot splits the park in two and the Oshawa Creek traverses the site. Development plans include walking paths, a shade pavilion that will double as a bandstand for concerts and other events and formal gardens. Rock outcrops will be turned into seating.
“This new park located at the entry to Oshawa’s port welcomes input from across the City,” said John Gray, Ward 5 City Councillor. “It will serve as a welcome addition to Oshawa’s Park system and improve the vista from Harbour Road. I encourage residents from across Oshawa to provide suggestions and feedback.”