New outdoor fitness area opens at Windsor’s Gateway Park

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens, Coun. Frazier Fathers, and other officials take part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2026, marking the opening of a new outdoor fitness area at Gateway Park in Windsor, Ont. (Chris Campbell/CTV News Windsor)

Residents can now get a workout outdoors at Windsor’s Gateway Park following the completion of a new fitness area in the city’s west end.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Wednesday to mark the opening of the new equipment at the park, located at 1271 Riverside Dr. W., between Riverside Drive West and University Avenue West.

The fitness area includes outdoor exercise equipment that can accommodate up to nine people at a time, with options aimed at improving strength, balance, flexibility, and cardiovascular fitness.

The project also includes poured-in-place recycled rubber surfacing designed to improve accessibility and durability, along with a new wayfinding sign at Riverside Drive West and Cameron Avenue.

Mayor Drew Dilkens said the project gives residents another opportunity to stay active while enjoying a free public amenity.

“The new outdoor fitness area at Gateway Park is another example of how we are Investing Responsibly and Protecting Windsor’s Future by creating accessible, inclusive, and sustainable public spaces,” Dilkens said in a statement.

The project was funded through Ward 2 funds, with support from former Coun. Fabio Costante and current Coun. Frazier Fathers.

The Kal Tire RePlay Fund also contributed to the project, helping offset the cost of the recycled rubber surfacing. The program supports community projects that use recycled rubber products made from Canadian scrap tires.

The city said the fitness area complements Gateway Park’s existing recreational amenities while expanding access to free outdoor recreation.

The project was included in Windsor’s 2026 budget, which includes more than $317 million in capital investments this year, including $29.2 million for community services such as parks, recreation, facilities and culture.