The Streetcar 351 project at the Legacy Park location at the foot of Caron Avenue. (via the City of Windsor)The Streetcar 351 project at the Legacy Park location at the foot of Caron Avenue. (via the City of Windsor)
Windsor

Streetcar project moving to Legacy Park

The historic Streetcar No. 351 along with its enclosure and terraces will be installed at the foot of Caron Avenue in Legacy Park.

After a lengthy debate by Windsor City Councillors the $8.4 million project passed with a 7-4 vote. That’s $1-million more than the project would have cost if it had been constructed at Assumption Park.

The project was moved and redesigned after residents near Assumption Park appealed the decision over the height of the enclosure. With the new configuration, the building will not exceed the crown of Riverside Drive.

“This will be the most well used destination place on a daily basis along our riverfront and it will build in a piece of Windsor’s history,” said Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens. “This isn’t about taking the streetcar and just putting it next to the beacon. This is about place making.”

The streetcar was refurbished after approval from council in 2017 and was originally envisioned as an ice cream stand or food truck. However, after the streetcar was refurbished it was determined it should not be exposed to the elements.

Councillors against the project raised concerns over the increased budget for the project and the size and scope of the project. Councillor Kieran McKenzie said he believes the building is contrary to the Central Riverfront Implementation Plan developed over 20 years ago that stipulated developments should be restricted in size.

Council also requested the City of Windsor administration to develop a business case for the operation of the facility. It will include washrooms, concessions, bike rental, and event space rental.

The playground equipment currently on the site will need to be moved to make way for the project. Administration advised the equipment was due for replacement anyway and will not have to be moved far.

A timeline for the project has not been determined.

During the meeting on Monday, council also voted to refer a report on the Festival Plaza back to administration. Councillors requested administration provide different options for the development of the site at different price options for the council to consider.

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