Toronto’s Newest Island and Largest Park in a Generation Open to the Public
Biidaasige Park officially opens on Ookwemin Minising, marking a milestone in Toronto’s $1.4B waterfront revitalization
TORONTO — In a historic celebration for the city, Toronto officially opened Biidaasige Park, a sprawling 50-acre green space and the marquee attraction on the city’s newest island, Ookwemin Minising. The launch event welcomed hundreds of visitors and dignitaries including Environment Minister Julie Dabrusin, Mayor Olivia Chow, Indigenous leaders, and all three levels of government, highlighting a transformative moment in Toronto’s waterfront redevelopment.
Biidaasige Park (pronounced “bee-daw-sih-geh” and meaning “sunlight shining toward us” in Anishinaabemowin) is the first public space to open on Ookwemin Minising — a manmade island created as part of a $1.4-billion flood protection project at the mouth of the Don River. The park features Toronto’s first ziplines, giant animal sculptures in the playground, waterplay features, accessible trails, and new recreational access to the revitalized riverfront.
“Biidaasige Park is a prime example of what we can build when we work together,” said Minister Julie Dabrusin. “This isn’t just a park. It’s a foundation for future housing, community, and reconciliation.”
A New Era for the Port Lands
Biidaasige Park is the largest park to open in Toronto in a generation. Built as part of the Port Lands Flood Protection initiative, the park represents the first step toward transforming the previously industrial area into a new, mixed-use community.
Ookwemin Minising (meaning “place of the black cherry trees”) spans 98 acres and is expected to eventually become home to over 15,000 residents and nearly 3,000 jobs. The tri-government partnership behind the transformation has already committed an additional $975 million to accelerate housing, parks, and infrastructure development across the island and adjacent Quayside.
“We’re building a city within a city,” said Mayor Olivia Chow. “This new island and its vibrant park are part of a $2.4 billion commitment to a greener, more inclusive future.”
What’s in the Park
The 2025 opening phase features:
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50 acres of parkland (with 10 more acres coming in 2026)
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Toronto’s first ziplines
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Giant animal sculptures representing Indigenous dodems
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The Badlands Scramble waterplay area
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Non-motorized boat slips, trails, fishing spots, and birdwatching
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Two off-leash dog parks and riverfront step-downs
By 2026, the park will also include the Lassonde Art Trail, Canada’s first of its kind.
Over 5,000 trees, 77,000 shrubs, and two million herbaceous plants have been planted throughout the island.
Unlocking Housing & Economic Growth
The park’s completion represents more than a recreational milestone — it is key to enabling future residential development on flood-protected lands. Combined, the development of Ookwemin Minising and Quayside is expected to support over 14,000 new homes (including affordable units), generate 100,000 skilled trades jobs, and contribute $13.2 billion to Canada’s economy.
“We’re delivering the infrastructure Ontario needs to build more housing, support tourism, and drive growth,” said Kinga Surma, Ontario’s Minister of Infrastructure.
Indigenous Collaboration & Placekeeping
The name “Biidaasige” was gifted to the city by Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers and reflects the spiritual connection between land, light, and water. The project integrates Indigenous teachings into its design and naming, with Chief Claire Sault of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation noting the park’s symbolism of renewal and shared stewardship.
“This project honours the spirit of Biidaasige, ‘the one who brings the light,’” said Chief Sault. “It reflects a commitment to restoring natural spaces and honouring Indigenous connection to this land.”
Biidaasige Park is now open to the public, inviting all Torontonians to explore a renewed river, a new island, and a new vision for the city’s eastern waterfront.
Learn more at: toronto.ca/BiidaasigePark
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