Hawrelak Park's Grand Return: A Beloved Green Space Reawakens

Oh, what a difference three years can make! For many of us Edmontonians, the closure of Hawrelak Park felt a bit like losing a piece of our city's soul. It's been a long wait, hasn't it? But get ready to mark your calendars, because after what feels like an eternity, our beloved green oasis is finally set to welcome us back. As of March 13th, portions of Hawrelak Park will officially reopen, a truly much-anticipated moment for everyone who's missed its sprawling landscapes and tranquil pathways.

This isn't just a simple reopening, though. We're talking about a monumental, $100-million rehabilitation project that's been underway since early 2022. Imagine the sheer scale of work involved! From upgrading vital infrastructure that most of us never even see to enhancing the very ground we walk on, it’s been a massive undertaking. And while a significant chunk of the heavy lifting is now behind them – think major construction complete – there are still some exciting finishing touches to look forward to.

So, what exactly can we expect when we visit next month? Well, don't go expecting everything to be picture-perfect just yet. Think of it as a grand preview! You'll find access to certain portions of the park, which means some trails will be open for those invigorating walks, and various picnic spots will be ready for your spring outings. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the park and witness the transformation firsthand, even as crews continue their diligent work in other areas.

Speaking of those finishing touches, the city has quite a bit on its plate before the project reaches its full, glorious completion. We're talking about intricate landscaping – imagine thousands of new trees and plants – final pathway connections, grading, and the completion of those brand-new pavilions. It's all part of ensuring that when the park is truly done, it’s absolutely spectacular. The full grand reveal, where every last detail is perfect, is anticipated for Fall 2025. Patience, my friends, a little more patience!

Now, here's an interesting detail many of you might already know, but it bears repeating: Hawrelak Park is actually undergoing a name change as part of this transformation. Once the entire project is officially wrapped up, this cherished space will be known as Emily Murphy Park. It’s a significant shift, reflecting a broader commitment to reconciliation and honouring important figures in our city’s history. So, while we'll be visiting "Hawrelak" for now, get ready to embrace "Emily Murphy" in the not-too-distant future.

Ultimately, this reopening marks a truly exciting chapter for Edmonton. Our parks are more than just green spaces; they're the lungs of our city, places where memories are made, where we connect with nature and each other. The revamped Hawrelak Park – soon to be Emily Murphy Park – promises improved accessibility for everyone, enhanced ecological features, and an even more beautiful environment for generations to come. It’s a testament to our city's dedication to preserving and improving these invaluable natural assets. Welcome back, old friend!