The sound of laughter, games competitively underway and a strong sense of community spirit filled Port Hope’s Lions Park as residents came together to celebrate the park’s official reopening. The significant environmental cleanup completed in the footprint of the park as part of the Port Hope Area Initiative (PHAI) made these activities possible. Hosted by Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), the event marked a milestone for PHAI projects with the restoration of one of the community’s cherished green spaces.
An official ribbon-cutting ceremony with representatives from the Municipality of Port Hope led by Deputy Mayor Vicky Mink, and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) provided an opportunity to highlight the significance of the project. Specifically, the park’s renewed role as a safe, vibrant gathering place for families and visitors is a direct result of the work completed by CNL.
Following the ceremony, the public was invited for a “day in the park” community celebration. Residents of all ages enjoyed games, activities, and delicious fare from a local food truck, while exploring the newly restored park and its updated features.
“This park has been part of our community’s story for decades, and today we’re celebrating not just its reopening, but a cleaner, safer future for everyone,” said PHAI General Manager Scott Cameron at the event.
Lions Park had been closed for almost two years to allow for environmental cleanup and restoration work as part of the PHAI, which is addressing the safe cleanup and management of historic low-level radioactive and industrial waste in the area.
Representatives from CNL, AECL, and the Municipality of Port Hope all expressed gratitude to the residents for their patience throughout the cleanup process and reaffirmed their commitment to continued environmental stewardship and community well-being.
With the birds chirping and the sound of children playing once again echoing through the trees at Lions Park, the events marked not just the return of a park — but the celebration of progress.
For more information on the PHAI and future restoration projects, visit www.phai.ca.
