The Canadian Press
TORONTO–The waterlogged Toronto Islands finally will reopen to the public on July 31.
The popular tourist destination and home to hundreds of city residents virtually was shut down in early May after flooding caused by rising water levels in Lake Ontario, brought on in part by heavy rains.
Permits for wedding and other events were cancelled while residents described seeing carp spawning on the roadways and trees falling down because the ground was too soft to support them.
The city now says regular summer ferry service and city recreation programs will resume Monday and that Toronto Island Park, including Centre Island, Centreville Theme Park, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point, will reopen to the public.
The city added while all beaches will be open with lifeguards on duty, portions of some beaches will remain off-limits.
As well, Olympic Island will remain closed to the public due to high water levels.
Mayor John Tory said last month the cost of repairing the damage done to the city’s shorelines and the Toronto Islands will run to many millions of dollars.
“I know that for many Torontonians, summer isn’t complete without a visit to the Toronto Islands, which is why I’m so pleased that the park is being reopened for residents and visitors to enjoy,” Tory said in a statement.
“I want to thank city staff for their tireless and ongoing commitment to preserving and restoring the island park, and to residents for their patience throughout this unprecedented event,” he added.
