Hawrelak Park, one of Edmonton’s cherished green spaces, is set to reopen later this year after a significant three-year rehabilitation project that began in 2023. The park, nestled in the North Saskatchewan River Valley, has been undergoing extensive above- and underground renovations aimed at revitalizing its infrastructure, which had become outdated since the park’s inception in 1967. According to Jesse Banford, the director of facility infrastructure delivery with the City of Edmonton, the construction is progressing on schedule and within budget, with many final touches being applied this summer. The rehabilitation includes an array of updates to the park’s main pavilion and plaza, including improved finishes, fixtures, skate flooring, and the addition of gender-neutral washrooms.
As work continues, the city has reported substantial advancements in key areas such as picnic shelters, the main pavilion, and operations yard. Remaining tasks include electrical work, landscaping, and the paving of pathways, which resumed earlier in the spring. A major milestone is the scheduled reopening in conjunction with the Silver Skate Festival, a popular winter event in Edmonton. City Councillor Michael Janz stated that the length of the park’s closure has been felt by the community, but he expressed excitement about the reopening and the improvements that have been made.
Prior to finalizing the rehabilitation plans, the city debated two options: a phased approach that would maintain limited access to the park over a decade or a full three-year closure for a comprehensive overhaul. The decision to opt for the latter was met with some resistance from local communities but was ultimately deemed more effective for achieving the necessary upgrades. The closure, while inconvenient, has led many Edmontonians to explore other parks and green spaces around the city, enhancing their appreciation of the community and its diverse recreational offerings.
The extensive updates focus on a complete overhaul of the park’s utilities and infrastructure. The project involved replacing outdated storm sewers, irrigation, and water supply systems, as well as upgrading power, gas, and telecommunications. Additionally, the city expanded water service capacity for improved firefighting coverage throughout the park. With the underground work now complete, Banford mentioned that remaining landscaping and pathway paving will occur this summer, and the lake will be refilled. Proper establishment time for landscaping will be necessary before the park can welcome visitors again.
Changes to the Heritage Amphitheatre are also part of the project, with enhancements such as new outdoor seating, lighting, and structural upgrades. New family and gender-neutral washrooms will be added, and improvements in backstage access are planned. The playground and paddle boat dock will be updated, and recent installations of playground equipment have already been made. Additional amenities, including increased lighting, bicycle parking, and shared-use paths, are being integrated throughout the park, further enhancing connectivity and accessibility for all visitors.
As construction approaches completion, the city is preparing for the park’s reopening, which is expected to come with updated site furniture, signage, and visitor amenities. A media tour is planned later this year, allowing the public to see the transformed landscape and pathways. Events such as the Heritage Festival are anticipated to return to their home at Hawrelak Park next summer, following an agreement between festival organizers and the city. The revitalization of Hawrelak Park is set to ensure that it remains a vibrant and cherished destination for Edmontonians for many years to come.
