Black Oak Heritage Park is reopening

After being closed to the public since 2015, Black Oak Heritage Park is reopening.

The only public entrance, on the north side of the woods, has been closed during construction of the Gordie Howe Bridge plaza near the park.

The wooded area, dense with rare and endangered species of plants and small animals, has been preserved by the City of Windsor since it was purchased in the late 80s.

“It’s the largest area of black oak savanna that we have in Windsor,” said Karen Cedar, naturalist for the City of Windsor parks department. “Black oak savanna is one of the most endangered habitats in Canada.”

According to Cedar, there are close to 200 rare species that call the park their home.

Cedar said although the city works hard to protect the life within the park, it is important for the public to be able to enjoy the park as well.

“There’s a lot of wonderful features here that people in the city of Windsor like to enjoy. Walking in the savanna and through the woodland is very relaxing and it’s a great way to connect with nature,” said Cedar.

“Now that we have access to it again…we don’t want to delay people being able to enjoy this gem of Windsor.”

There will be some temporary closures to Broadway Street while construction is still underway, but starting this weekend Windsorites will be able to return to hiking, bird-watching and leisure cycling along the public trail in Black Oak Heritage Park.