One of Toronto's largest parks is undergoing a massive transformation

Toronto officially marked a significant milestone on Friday as part of its ongoing revitalization of one of its most-visited green spaces, opening new, state-of-the-art sports hubs and recreational facilities.

Etobicoke's massive, 213-hectare Centennial Park, which welcomes approximately 1.5 million visits every year, is being reimagined as a modern, multi-use destination to expand access to sports, recreation, and community space over the next several years.

City officials, including Mayor Olivia Chow, highlighted the investment as part of a long-term strategy to improve outdoor recreation infrastructure across the city.

"Centennial Park is a vital space for residents and families, and these improvements will help make sure more people have access to high-quality places to stay active, connect with one another, and enjoy their community," Chow said. "As our city grows, investing in parks like this is essential to making sure neighbourhoods have the space and opportunities they need to succeed now and into the future."

Rendering of the park's future pond picnic area. Photo: City of Toronto.

The newly opened West Sports Hub, located in the western portion of the park, introduces a number of exciting community sports facilities, including four baseball diamonds, eight public-use beach volleyball courts, and a dozen pickleball courts.

In the southeast section of the park, the East Sports Hub has been designed with a stronger emphasis on soccer infrastructure and includes three soccer pitches, a multi-use field, and an extra premium field that will be used as a training site for participating teams at the upcoming FIFA World Cup in Toronto.

Overview of proposed and existing amenities at Centennial Park. Photo: City of Toronto.

After the tournament, the provincial government says the field will be used to support local sports leagues, community programming, and other recreational activities.

On top of its soccer facilities, the hub also offers a new field house with change rooms, washrooms, and a community space.

Rendering of the park's arboretum view. Photo: City of Toronto.

Other amenities that are set to open in phases later this year and through 2028 as part of the Centennial Park Master Plan include a playground and splash pad, a skate trail and updated chalet, expanded park infrastructure, and a cricket pitch.

The massive park is set to see more than $75 million in city council-approved capital investment, which will support additional upgrades and new amenities over the next five years.