Toronto speeds up revitalization plan at Centennial Park, adding new amenities this winter

Winter sports enthusiasts will want to check out Centennial Park this year as the city accelerates a revitalization project to improve amenities in the coming months.

This is all part of Toronto’s master plan for Centennial Park in Etobicoke, which will see the city transform existing amenities and recreation areas and improve accessibility.

On Tuesday, the city announced that in the short-term, new year-round activities would be introduced in the winter months, which include a new skate trail, renovations to the chalet and toboggan hill and additions and improvements to the multi-use trail system.

Despite the attractions coming to Centennial Park, the city says the ski and snowboard programs will not run this winter as crews work to “reimagine” the hill. A city spokesperson noted that the upcoming ski season would have been the last at Centennial Park before the master plan kicks into gear.

“The ski lift at Centennial [Park] did not operate in 2020, the hill was closed in 2021 in response to COVID-19 protections, and this year’s modified season ended in early February due to mechanical issues with the ski lift,” a city spokesperson said.

“The city is accelerating the plan and fast-tracking the delivery of new winter activities for residents and visitors to the park.”

In place of ski and snowboard operations at Centennial Park, the city says it is offering new affordable programs and free events for residents of all ages to enjoy this winter. Photo: City of Toronto Centennial Park Masterplan/YouTube.

In place of ski and snowboard programs, Centennial Park will be home to a holiday market featuring local businesses, themed leisure skating at the arena and a new tobogganing area.

“I am excited that staff have developed a plan for this coming winter season that will see new and fun activities and events in place for people to gather and enjoy the winter season,” Mayor John Tory said.

In addition to improving winter amenities, the city has been working to transform the playground and wading pool in Centennial Park.

The implementation of Phase 1 of Toronto’s master plan at Centennial Park started in the fall of 2021 in what the city called “the heart of the park.”

The city says the Centennial Park revitalization initiative was informed by a consultant report, public survey and extensive public consultation process and is supported by more than $10 million in capital investments over the next five years. Funding comes through the city’s capital budget and other potential funding sources.

Etobicoke’s Centennial Park is Toronto’s second-largest park near the border of Mississauga.