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Eco Park
On Saturday, June 12, 1999
a new park was officially opened in this area. It is the William Alexander
Dempsey Eco Park, named, of course, after Bill Dempsey, a long time
Centennial resident and founder of the CCRA. As a conservationist and
activist Bill has worked tirelessly for many years to protect the waters
of the Highland and Centennial Creeks. It is only fitting therefore that
the Eco Park, which is designed to clean the water from the 401 before it
enters the two creeks, should be named after him.
The Eco Park is divided into three sections. The official opening took
place at the most northerly of the three, in the Willowlea Wetland at
Scarboro Avenue and Willowlea Drive and the Opening Ceremonies began at
11:00 a.m.
A crowd of over 200 people enjoyed the glorious sunshine, listened to the
band and watched the ceremonial opening.
 After
speeches by Ron Moeser, Paul Cosgrove and Bill Dempsey, the sign was
unveiled, the ribbon was cut and the crowd entered the park. Cold pop and
juice were served with pieces of the biggest cake that I have ever seen.
There were activities for everyone with bird box building, aquatic
planting (rubber boots provided), mural painting and tales by Hawks
Shadow.
Afterwards, lunch was available at the Centennial Rouge United Church
Hall.
Report by Gay Cowbourne and pictures by Mike Osborn.
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