On Thursday, cyclists rode across the Commissioners Street Bridge beside Biidaasige Park. The Globe & Mail
Toronto now has a brand-new waterfront park. After 18 years of planning and building, the city has opened the first 50 acres of Biidaasige Park. The space stands where old warehouses and oil tanks once sat. Today, it’s full of green trails, water features, and places to explore.
The Don River now flows through a reshaped channel that brings it back to life. Trees, flowers, and native plants line the new riverbanks. Visitors can walk, bike, play, and even launch a canoe—something no one could do here for over 100 years.
A Fun Place for Everyone
Families can enjoy playgrounds, ziplines, and a giant owl sculpture. This owl also acts as a mini amphitheatre for children’s activities. Nearby, a 10-metre raccoon watches over kids at play. There’s also a large water area where children can work together to move water across stone paths.
The park also includes washrooms inside a restored 1920s firehall, picnic spots, and BBQ areas. South of the river, people can touch the water and feel close to nature.
Nature and History Come Together
Biidaasige means “sunlight shining toward us” in Anishinaabemowin. The name shows respect for Indigenous roots and the natural world. The project helps bring people closer to both water and land. Officials hope the park becomes a place of healing and connection.
Before settlers arrived, the Don River flowed through a rich marsh. Over time, it was filled with concrete and industry. By the early 1900s, this area became the Port Lands. But it remained underused and flood-prone for decades.
A Giant Environmental Effort
Construction teams began reshaping the land in 2018. They moved 1.2 million cubic metres of polluted soil and created a new river path. This restored wetlands, improved wildlife habitats, and made the area safer from floods.
Crews planted thousands of trees and plants. They placed large rocks with care and kept tree roots intact to help animals. Salmon are already returning to the new river.
Today, brand-new bridges and streets link the park to the rest of the city. People can walk, cycle, or take public transport here.
A Bright Future for the Area
City planners say this is just the beginning. A second phase of the park will open next year. It will include a bigger playground, a food pavilion, and a public art trail. By 2026, the full Lassonde Art Trail with 15 installations will be open.
The area will also grow into a busy neighborhood. Plans include homes for 6,000 people and 3,000 jobs. A nearby area has zoning for offices and housing. Developers are already lining up projects.
Toronto’s parks team plans weekend events and is preparing parking and access points. The city hopes the park will become a must-visit place for everyone.
