Barrie-Innisfil to Rename Hastings Park
The Town of Innisfil, in collaboration with the City of Barrie, has announced plans to rename Hastings Park, a popular green space located in the community. The decision comes after extensive consultations with residents, local historians, and Indigenous groups, who expressed a desire for a name that better represents the area's diverse heritage and contemporary values.
According to a joint statement released on May 13, 2026, the new name will be unveiled in a public ceremony later this summer. The park, situated near the shores of Lake Simcoe, has been a focal point for recreational activities and community gatherings for decades. Officials emphasized that the renaming process is part of a broader effort to promote inclusivity and reconciliation.
“Hastings Park holds a special place in the hearts of many, but we have heard from community members who feel the current name does not fully capture the spirit of our town,” said Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dollin. “This change is about honoring the past while looking forward to a more united future.”
The park was originally named after a local family who donated the land in the early 20th century. However, recent historical research revealed that the Hastings family had ties to colonial policies that adversely affected Indigenous communities. This discovery prompted the municipal governments to initiate a review of the park’s name.
Residents were invited to submit suggestions for new names through an online portal and public meetings. Over 500 proposals were received, ranging from Indigenous-language names to tributes to local environmentalists and cultural figures. A committee of community leaders, historians, and Indigenous representatives will narrow down the options before a final vote by the town council.
“This is a meaningful step toward truth and reconciliation,” said Chief Donna Big Canoe of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation. “We appreciate the willingness of the town to listen and learn from our shared history.”
The renaming will also include updated signage, interpretive panels, and a commemorative plaque that explains the history of the original name and the reasons for the change. The cost of the project is estimated at $50,000, funded through a combination of municipal budgets and community donations.
Local businesses and residents have expressed mixed reactions. Some welcome the change as a progressive move, while others lament the loss of a familiar landmark name. “I understand the reasoning, but it’s still hard to let go of something that’s been part of our lives for so long,” said long-time resident Margaret Thompson.
The new name will take effect on September 1, 2026, with a grand reopening celebration featuring live music, food vendors, and cultural performances. The event aims to bring the community together and highlight the park’s renewed identity.
