Ontario Government Relaxing Alcohol Restrictions in Provincial Parks

Effective immediately, the Ontario government is easing alcohol restrictions and is allowing adults to consume them throughout provincial parks, announced at Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Oakville on Wednesday morning.

Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks making his announcement at Bronte Creek Provincial Park of the relaxed restrictions of alcohol consumption in provincial parks. Screenshot.

According to Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, this move is part of the government’s plan to protect Ontario by building a more competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy while supporting a stronger tourism industry that creates jobs and drives economic growth across the province.

“Ontario Parks are some of the province’s most sought-after destinations for day trips and overnight camping, offering people a chance to connect and spend quality time together,” he said. “As families and friends gather for picnics or unwind after a long day on the trails, updated rules around where alcohol can be consumed are intended to improve the overall park experience and support local tourism, while continuing to prioritize safety. Ontario Parks are a key part of what makes our province a travel destination and we are supporting experiences that attract more visitors, strengthen communities and grow the economy.”

@ptbo_canada The Ontario government is loosening alcohol restrictions and adults can consume alcoholic beverages throughout provincial parks, effective immediately. ##ptbocanada##journalism##fyp##news##tourism ♬ original sound - PTBOCanada

The relaxed restrictions allow adults aged 19 and older to enjoy alcohol responsibly in most areas of provincial parks that are open and staffed for the 2026 season, such as picnic areas, beaches and other day-use areas. Park users will not receive tickets or fines for responsibly consuming alcohol in permitted areas outside of individual campsites. Existing rules still apply for unsafe or unlawful behaviour, including public intoxication, underage possession or consumption, and having open or improperly stored alcohol in a motor vehicle or boat.

Parks will post signage to identify areas that will remain alcohol-free such as sites of cultural or historical significance, buildings where food and drink are already restricted and areas that may pose significant safety risks.

Park staff continue to enforce rules including:

• consuming alcohol only where it is allowed

• respecting other park users

• disposing of containers properly

• never driving or boating while impaired

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Beavermead Park Tree Planting and Soil Restoration To Take Place This Spring

Tree planting will take place in the Beavermead Park parking lot area this spring as part of the ongoing restoration and reinvestment in urban forest health following the March 2025 ice storm. 

photo courtesy of the city of peterborough.

To prepare for the tree plantings, stump removal and soil remediation work is scheduled to take place in the Beavermead Park parking lot area beginning April 13.

The City is moving forward with enhancements to Beavermead Park as part of its Federation of Canadian Municipalities, Green Municipal Fund, Growing Canada Community Canopies (FCM-GCCC) Tree Planting Project. 

Beavermead Park was selected due to the significant number of trees impacted by the March 2025 ice storm. 

The project focuses on restoring parking lot islands, including the removal of 33 tree stumps and remediation of the soil within the parking lot islands. Restoring soil conditions and removing barriers to planting creates the foundation needed to support long-term tree health and continued canopy growth. 

New trees will then be planted in the parking lot islands, which will reduce heat buildup and enhance community health and wellbeing. Trees in the parking lot area are estimated to be replanted during the Spring 2026 planting season, with approximately 45 native trees planted through contracted tree planting services made possible by the FCM-GCCC grant. This planting will contribute to the City’s urban forest canopy goals and align with the City’s Strategic Plan by enhancing both the natural and recreational value of the park. 

Work is expected to take approximately one week. During this time, the parking lot area will be reduced to allow for site remediation work. The park will remain open. Half of the parking lot will be temporarily barricaded during each phase of work, with parking remaining available for public use in areas where work is not occurring. 

For more information on the City’s Urban Forest Strategic Plan, visit the link.

For questions or concerns, contact the Urban Forestry Program via phone (ext.1380) or email.

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City of Peterborough Invites Residents To Share Their Opinions On the Jackson Park Management Plan

The City of Peterborough is inviting residents to provide feedback on the development of a Park Management Plan for Jackson Park by attending a community design charrette and completing a survey. 

file photo.

The community design charrette will be held on Jan. 21 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Community Centre, 577 McDonnel St. The project consultant team will introduce the purpose of the Park Management Plan and City staff will be present to answer questions. Attendees will be able to provide comments and share feedback on a set of focus questions to help shape the development of the Plan. 

“This charrette is a chance for residents to share their ideas and help shape the future of a park that is valued by the whole community,” said Councillors Kevin Duguay and Joy Lachica, Infrastructure, Planning and Growth Management Co-chairs, in a joint statement. “We want Jackson Park to remain a safe, welcoming, and ecologically healthy space for everyone. A grounded and action-oriented plan, developed with community input, will help lead the park’s long-term protection, maintenance and stewardship.” 

The comprehensive Park Management Plan will guide how Jackson Park is cared for over the next 10 to 20 years. The plan will protect the park’s integrity while accommodating future needs. It will include priorities, policy guidance, design standards and a monitoring framework to support sustained stewardship, while considering long-term planning factors identified in City studies, such as the Transportation Master Plan. 

An Indigenous engagement process will be conducted with Williams Treaties First Nations and the urban Indigenous community. A Working Group made up of City staff, Otonabee Conservation and local civic and community groups will provide strategic guidance at key times throughout the project.  

“Jackson Park is a vital cultural and ecological asset in Peterborough and a cherished urban green space,” said the City of Peterborough in a press release. “Located on the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations and covered under the Williams Treaties, the park plays an important role in supporting environmental health and community well-being.”

The City encourages residents to attend the community design charrette and share ideas for the park’s future. Community members can also provide input through the online survey and interactive project map on Connect Peterborough. The survey closes Feb. 20. Hard copies are available at Service Peterborough in City Hall, 500 George St. N. 

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Knights of Columbus Park Closed This Week For Improvements

Knights of Columbus Park is expected to be temporarily closed starting this week, with work starting on improvements to the park, including park lighting, new tennis courts and upgrades to the Legacy Bowl.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

Located at 5 Park St. N., the Park was identified as a priority during the City of Peterborough’s Parks and Outdoor Recreation Study.  

Improvements to the park include: 

• four new tennis courts 

• improved lighting 

• Legacy Bowl upgrades 

• an off-leash dog area 

• upgrading the wading pool to a splash pad 

• adding washrooms 

• adding more trees 

• a shade structure 

• enhancing accessibility  

Construction on the tennis courts is set to finish in the summer of next year and the remainder of the project is to be completed by fall of the same year.

Parking, including overnight parking, will be prohibited in the Knights of Columbus Park parking lot during construction. The no parking regulation for the parking lot during construction will be enforced, which can include the issuance of a penalty notice, towing and impoundment of the vehicle or a combination of these measures.  

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Peterborough County to Celebrate 50th Anniversary of Douro Park On Sept. 1

Peterborough County is celebrating Douro Park’s 50th anniversary which marks five decades of preserving natural beauty and providing a space for community engagement on Sept. 1 at 3 p.m. at 205 Douro Second Line, Douro-Dummer.

Google Maps Screenshot.

Since 1974, the Park has been a cherished destination for residents and visitors as stated in a press release. With 151 acres, Douro Park lines both banks of the beautiful Indian River. It contains baseball diamonds, soccer fields, pickleball courts, tennis courts, a playground and picnic areas and scenic landscapes.

The anniversary event will feature a variety of activities for all ages, including:

• Welcome remarks from local officials and park advocates reflecting on the park's history and impact

“Douro Park has been a vital part of our community for 50 years, and we are excited to celebrate this milestone,” said Mayor Heather Watson. “This event is not just about looking back; it’s about looking forward and continuing to protect and enhance this beautiful space for future generations.” "The celebration will also highlight upcoming initiatives aimed at improving park facilities and promoting long-term ecological health." Community members are encouraged to participate and share their memories of Douro Park over the years.

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Broadway Park Officially Opens In City's North End

Broadway Park is officially up and running as the City celebrated its official opening on Thursday afternoon.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The park is at 872 Broadway Blvd. in the City’s north end, northeast of Milroy Drive and Chemong Road.

The new Park features include a playground with swings, a basketball half-court, seating areas, and paved walkways. The City’s Parkland Development Assistance Program, Tollington Parks Endowment Fund and Access Fund supported the project.

Northcrest Ward Councillors Andrew Beamer and Dave Haacke joined the neighbourhood for the official opening of the park.

“Neighbourhood parks contribute to healthy, thriving neighbourhoods. The opening of this park provides new recreational amenities for the well-being of people in our growing community,” said Haacke.

“This new park is a great addition to the north end of Peterborough,” said Beamer. “The new playground equipment, basketball half court and accessible features throughout the park reflect priorities identified by the neighbourhood and will ensure that families and people of all ages will continue to enjoy the park for years to come.”

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Bonnerworth Park Project Consultation Extended

The public commenting period for the draft plan for the Bonnerworth Park project has been extended to 5 p.m. on Aug. 21.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Public comments on the draft plan, which can be viewed through the City’s community engagement hub can be submitted using the comments tool on the project page, by emailing bonnerworthproject@peterborough.ca or by calling 705-742-0050 ext. 2226#.

The draft plan for the park, located at 550 McDonnel St., was posted last Thursday.

A presentation outlining the features of the draft plan is posted on the project page.

A community outdoor recreation facility needs study, community consultation, the project budget and site-specific technical studies to inform the creation of the project plan.

A summary of the submissions from the current commenting period will be posted on the project page.

Community consultation for the Bonnerworth Park project and the Knights of Columbus Park project was undertaken from February through April 2024 with two surveys, two public meetings, and meetings with recreation facility user groups related to the two projects.

City Council initially approved the Bonnerworth Park project when it approved the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study in October 2023. It approved the Bonnerworth Park project in the City’s 2024 Budget in December 2023.

The draft plan shows features such as:

• About 275 trees will be planted in the park

• About 63 per cent of the site will be green space – landscaped/grass

• Setbacks from neighbouring properties

• Noise attenuation measures, including noise attenuation fencing and landscaping such as berms

• The location of 14 pickleball courts, down from 16 when the concept was initially introduced

• The location of the new bike pump track will be designed with grass areas between the bike paths

• The expansion of the existing skateboard park

• Parking areas totalling 44 spaces, which is a reduction from a previous concept

• Pathways within the park

Construction is expected to begin in fall 2024.

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City of Peterborough to Bring Bonnerworth Park Project Draft Plan to Advisory Committee review

A draft plan for the Bonnerworth Park project will be reviewed during a combined meeting of the Arenas, Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee and the Accessibility Advisory Committee on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m., announced on Thursday.

Coalition member Geoff Rix performing an “Indy” grab while airborne off a launch ramp after the Bonnerworth West 49 Skatepark revitalization in 2021. City Council initially approved the Bonnerworth Park project when it approved the Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities Study in October 2023. It approved the Bonnerworth Park project in the City’s 2024 Budget in December 2023. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The review includes an expanded skateboard park, a new bike pump track, pickleball courts, planting trees and landscaping.

The meeting will be live-streamed on the City’s website while no public delegations are allowed at advisory committee meetings.

The draft plan shows features such as:

• About 275 trees will be planted in the park

• About 63 per cent of the site will be green space – landscaped/grass

• Setbacks from neighbouring properties

• Noise attenuation measures, including noise attenuation fencing and landscaping such as berms

• The location of 14 pickleball courts, down from 16 when the concept was initially introduced

• The location of the new bike pump track that will be designed with grass areas between the bike paths

• The expansion of the existing skateboard park

• Parking areas totalling 44 spaces, which is a reduction from a previous concept

• Pathways within the park

The two advisory committees will be able to provide feedback about the draft plan for consideration before the City finalizes the document ahead of construction, which is expected to begin this fall.

Public comments on the draft plan, which can be viewed through the City’s community engagement hub, can be submitted using the comments tool on the project page, by sending an email to bonnerworthproject@peterborough.ca or by calling 705-742-0050 ext. 2226#.

Public comments can be submitted until 11:59 p.m. on August 16, for consideration before finalizing the project plan.

The project team is considering feedback from community consultation, including feedback from the Arenas, Parks, and Recreation Advisory Committee, the Accessibility Advisory Committee, and broader public feedback from the consultation process, before finalizing the draft plan for the project according to the City.

The draft plan is also informed by various studies and factors such as noise studies, traffic flow, groundwater conditions, and stormwater management.

Community consultation for the Bonnerworth Park project and the Knights of Columbus Park project was undertaken from February through April with two surveys, two public meetings and meetings with recreation facility user groups related to the two projects.

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Quaker Foods City Square Outdoor Skating Rink Closed For Season

The Quaker Foods City Square outdoor skating rink closed for the season as spring temperatures are in Peterborough’s forecast.

Photo by David Tuan Bui.

“Thank you to everyone who gathered this year for skating, the community tree lighting event in December and skating parties hosted by City Council, Recreation and Parks Services and the Peterborough Youth Council,” said Councillors Lesley Parnell and Gary Baldwin.

The Square hosts numerous activities throughout the year including the Peterborough Regional Farmers’ Market that takes place Wednesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., from May 1 to Oct. 30.

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City of Peterborough Seeking Public Input For Redevlopment of Knights of Columbus Park

The future of the Knights of Columbus Park is in the public’s hands as the City of Peterborough is seeking their consultation on investing in the community park to enhance the space and add new recreation features.

Photo courtesy of the City of Peterborough.

The park is located at 5 Park St. N. will become a new recreation hub.

Work on Phase 1 of the improvements including four tennis courts and associated lighting, is expected to start in fall 2024. Phase 2 work is proposed for 2025 including upgrades to the existing Legacy Bowl, a new washroom building, a pet exercise area and a shade structure.

The Co-chairs of the Community Services (Recreation and Parks, Fire Services, and Arenas) portfolio, Councillor Lesley Parnell and Councillor Gary Baldwin, encourage residents to participate in the community consultation.

“We’re excited to see the Knights of Columbus Park reimagined in a way that complements the work planned for Bonnerworth Park,” said Baldwin. “Together the new recreation facilities will make a big step to meeting the needs of Peterborough residents, including new tennis courts at Knights of Columbus and new pickleball courts at Bonnerworth. We want to hear from you to gain insights from a community perspective.”

“The new multi-year Parks & Outdoor Facilities Master Plan was endorsed by Council in September 2023. This was the result of an extensive community engagement process involving all major stakeholder groups and has been confirmed at budget,” said Parnell. “We are now working through the site plans for each approved park/recreation area as the master plan is implemented. Next on the horizon will be a full review of our indoor recreation needs. Check out ConnectPTBO.ca for all ongoing projects,”

A Public Drop-in Session will take place on April 4 from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the McDonnel Street Community Centre at 577 McDonnel St. City staff will be available to answer questions and receive input on the proposed development.

Everyone is invited to complete the online survey that will allow participants to identify features they would like to see in the park and make suggestions to create an inclusive environment. Paper copies of the survey will be available in the lobby at City Hall, 500 George St. N.

The survey will be open until 11:59 p.m. on April 12. Once the survey has closed, an update summarizing the findings will be posted online. Additional consultation is planned with facility user groups. Future information about the project and a concept plan will be updated on the page as the project proceeds.

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