Riverfront revamp: Windsor's historic streetcar and Detroit's massive multi-use park
CBC
While the relationship between Canada and the U.S., is strained on many fronts, Windsor and Detroit's shared riverfront remains a certainty.
The geography between the cities is undeniable and both municipalities are seeing new fairly significant landmarks pop up along the river's banks.
Thursday marks the official opening of Windsor's Legacy Beacon off Riverside Drive West near Caron Avenue. Work has been underway since the start of the summer in 2023.
It's believed the historic streetcar No. 351 was built in Ohio in 1918 and later purchased by the Sandwich, Windsor and Amherstburg Railway in 1926. It's 15 metres long and almost 11,000 kilograms.
The cost of the project has risen steadily since council gave it the go-ahead in 2017 — coming in at $10.3 million. It will include spots to eat and drink, and a patio overlooking the river. Back in 2020, city council greenlit a budget of $7 million for the project, then called the Celestial Beacon.
"This streetcar is a relic from Windsor's past — one of those unique artifacts that is important because it is truly authentic to the city of Windsor's history," said Mayor Drew Dilkens.
WATCH | Streetcar No. 351 preview from Enwin Utilities:
He said when the city discussions first occurred about what could be done with the streetcar it wasn't clear what they were going to do.
"But I knew we had to do something," he said.
"It was important to find a new life for the streetcar, and to write a new chapter for it in our community."
Thursday morning's unveiling will be followed by guided tours and an onsite historical exhibition, according to the city. Tours will continue through Sunday as well as live entertainment.
Detroit's Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Centennial Park project has also been years in the making.
The nine hectares of land sit along the riverfront between the Ambassador Bridge and Detroit's downtown. It connects the east riverfront to the west riverfront.
The Detroit River Conservancy purchased the property in 2007 and construction started in 2022 with an official groundbreaking.
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