By: Matt Weinagrden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
Windsor–Tecumseh MPP Andrew Dowie is celebrating the passage of Bill 26, describing the legislation as a transformative step in how Ontarians access, experience and protect the province’s parks and natural spaces.
The Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Amendment Act, 2025, passed at Queen’s Park this week, introduces sweeping changes to Ontario’s parks system by modernizing classifications and expanding recreational opportunities while maintaining a strong focus on conservation.
At the centre of the legislation is the creation of two new categories of provincial parks — Urban Class Parks and Adventure Class Parks — designed to reflect changing lifestyles and growing demand for accessible outdoor recreation.
“Bill 26 makes nature more accessible and strengthens our connection to the outdoors,” Dowie said in a statement. “Families across Ontario — including here in Windsor–Tecumseh — will be able to enjoy green spaces closer to home while we continue to protect our environment for future generations.”
Urban Class Parks are intended to bring provincially protected green spaces closer to population centres, allowing residents to enjoy nature without travelling long distances. The first park designated under this new category will be Uxbridge Urban Provincial Park, marking a significant shift toward integrating conservation lands within or near urban communities.
Adventure Class Parks, meanwhile, are designed to support a broader range of outdoor activities, including rock climbing, mountain biking, paddling and kayaking. Charleston Lake Provincial Park will become Ontario’s first Adventure Class Park, offering enhanced recreational opportunities while maintaining environmental protections.
The province says the new classifications will improve accessibility, attract visitors, and boost tourism while supporting local economies, particularly in rural and recreation-focused regions.
In addition to establishing new park classes, Bill 26 also allows the province to introduce future park classifications through regulation. Supporters say this flexibility ensures Ontario’s parks system can adapt to evolving recreational trends, environmental priorities and community needs.
Dowie noted the bill received unanimous support from members of all parties at Queen’s Park, calling it a rare example of cross-party cooperation.
“I want to thank my colleagues from all parties for recognizing the importance of this legislation and supporting it unanimously,” he said.
The Windsor–Tecumseh MPP also pointed to the bill as a continuation of his long-standing advocacy for conservation and public access to green spaces. He referenced his earlier success in securing provincial participation in Windsor’s Ojibway National Urban Park, which was announced on Nov. 29, 2022.
“This builds on the momentum we’ve already created with Ojibway,” Dowie said. “It shows that Ontario is serious about protecting natural spaces while making sure people can enjoy them in meaningful ways.”
With legislative approval complete, Bill 26 will now proceed to Royal Assent, the final step required before it becomes law. Royal Assent will be granted by Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Edith Dumont.
Once enacted, the legislation is expected to guide future park development, conservation planning and tourism strategies across the province.
More information about Bill 26 is available through the Legislative Assembly of Ontario.
