The fate of Windsor's sole public beach now rests in the hands of safety experts. Whether residents will be able to swim at Sand Point Beach next summer hinges entirely on the outcome of a comprehensive safety review being conducted by the Ontario Lifesaving Society.
A Tragic History Prompts Critical Review
This decisive audit was prompted by the tragic drowning of a 15-year-old boy in the waters near the beach in May of this year. This incident marked the ninth drowning death in the vicinity since Sand Point Beach first opened to the public in 1980. The area's danger is well-documented: the Detroit River just west of the beach features a steep drop-off into a fast-moving and deadly shipping channel. While buoys attempt to mark a safe swimming boundary during summer months, the perilous currents lie dangerously close.
Mayor Drew Dilkens confirmed that city council will base its final decision on the beach's future on the recommendations from this awaited review. The call for the audit came directly from the Ontario coroner's office following the latest fatality.
Funding in Place, But for What Purpose?
While unveiling a high-level preview of the proposed 2026 city budget, Mayor Dilkens revealed that funding has been earmarked for Sand Point Beach. The exact dollar figure was not disclosed. However, the mayor outlined two potential paths for this allocation, depending on the review's findings.
If the Lifesaving Society's audit concludes that swimming can be safely permitted, the funds could support necessary safety measures. Conversely, if the society recommends against reopening the water for swimming, the money would be redirected to create other amenities on the land. "So folks can still come down to Sand Point Beach and enjoy that public space," Dilkens stated, suggesting alternatives like a splash pad.
Confidential Audit and Community Hopes
The Lifesaving Society, a charitable organization dedicated to drowning prevention, is treating its safety services as confidential. Stephanie Bakalar, the Society's senior communications officer, declined to provide a status update or specifics, citing this policy.
This review comes after a 2023 master plan for the city-owned property proposed $15 million in extensive changes. Key recommendations included moving the sandy swimming area further east, away from the hazardous channel, and transforming part of the site into a grassy park with a playground and splash pad.
Ward 7 Councillor Angelo Marignani, who represents the east Windsor neighbourhood containing the beach, advocates for implementing the entire master plan. When asked about the possibility of a permanent swimming ban, he was clear: "I don't agree with it." The community now awaits the Lifesaving Society's verdict, which will determine whether Sand Point remains a swimming destination or is permanently transformed.
