New Accessible Playground at Optimist Memorial Park Now Open

Exciting improvements at Optimist Memorial Park (1075 Ypres Avenue) are now complete! 

This project represents an investment of approximately $475,000 and includes a new large-sized, forest-themed playground designed to provide an engaging play experience for children and families.

The project also includes:

• Rubber safety surfacing 
• A new perimeter concrete sidewalk 
• New benches and site furnishings 
• Drainage improvements 

The Optimist Memorial Park project is part of the City of Windsor’s much larger Playground Replacement Program, which is renewing playground infrastructure in neighbourhoods throughout the community. Through the program, $16.3 million in investments is helping to replace 35 neighbourhood playgrounds across the community and create a new destination "super playground" at Lanspeary Park. 

Previously approved by City Council and reflecting the City’s ongoing investment in playground renewal, accessibility, and parks improvements, the Playground Replacement Program includes a mix of small, medium, and large playgrounds strategically distributed across Windsor neighbourhoods. 

The program is designed to modernize playground spaces, enhance accessibility and safety, and provide high-quality recreational amenities that support children, families, and communities across Windsor. A full list of parks included in the replacement program is available online at CityW.ca/playgrounds.

Learn more about City of Windsor parks at CityWindsor.ca, or contact 311 for more information.

Quotes:

"Windsor’s 2026 City Budget includes a 0% municipal tax levy increase, a $2.26 billion 10-year capital plan, and over $317 million in investments for 2026 alone. This includes $29.2 million for community services like parks, recreation, facilities and culture. We are Investing Responsibly through the significant $16.3 million investment to replace aging playgrounds across the community with an eye towards growth, sustainability, affordability, and quality of life for Windsorites. The new playground at Optimist Memorial Park is a solid example of what is possible when we strike the right balance between affordability, the type of park enhancements that matter most to families, and the largest capital budget in Windsor’s history." 
- Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens

"This is something I campaigned on back in 2022, and honestly, residents in this area have been asking for a new playground for over a decade. It's good to finally see it happen. The new soft surface is a real upgrade too; it replaces the sand and rocks that were there before, which makes the whole space safer and more usable for kids. I also want to thank Mayor Dilkens for his continued support and funding towards the many improvements to Optimist Memorial Park over the last four years, including adding solar lights on the walking paths, replacing the paved trails with new asphalt, and more."
- Councillor Mark McKenzie, Ward 4