The Town of Tillsonburg has added to its green space with the introduction of two new parks.
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The new Doug Wilson Park is located in the Northcrest 1 subdivision, near Curren Crescent.
“Right now, we’re using it as an open space,” said Matt Johnson, manager of parks and facilities, “but there are plans for possibly swings or maybe a 0-5 play center… hopefully (in 2026). The demographic here seems to be a lot of young children.”
It features green space, spacious walking paths, solar lights, and it is circled by young trees.
“This park and the next park (Weston Family Park) are where we are displaying our new benches, our new design,” Johnson noted.
“When I look around, you can’t beat the area,” said Doug Wilson at the park unveiling on July 25, pleased with the small green-space park. “I hope everyone gets a nice honor like this some day in life.”
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“In this world of rapid growth, green spaces and farmland are being erased to make way for housing,” said Tillsonburg Mayor Deb Gilvesy, joined at the park opening by councilors Chris Rosehart and Pete Luciani, and Deputy Mayor Dave Beres.
“It is more important than ever that green space is preserved,” said Gilvesy. “This council has made it a priority. Green space is imperative for active and healthy living. Green spaces provide a place of gathering, belonging and sense of community.”
The two new parks were named after “one incredible family and one truly dedicated volunteer,” said Gilvesy, noting the town received a tremendous amount of support from the community in naming one of the new parks after Don Wilson.
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“The response was overwhelming,” Gilvesy smiled.
“Doug is a pillar in the community,” wrote one supporter. “Doug has been working as a volunteer with the youth and community organizations ever since I can remember. I can’t think of a better person than Doug Wilson to name a park after.”
“Doug Wilson represents the heart and soul of Tillsonburg,” wrote another supporter.
Gilvesy said it was an easy decision for council to dedicate the Northcrest 1 park in Wilson’s honor, recognizing a man who worked for the public utility commission for over 30 years, served on many town committees, was active in youth sports and played ball into his 80s, was an OPP auxiliary member many years, and a volunteer firefighter for 40 years.
“Doug has been an integral part of Tillsonburg,” Gilvesy said. “This new park will carry the name of such a highly respected and respected citizen who is proud to call Tillsonburg home. As a town, we are so extremely humbled by the caring nature and nurture Doug has shown towards his community over the years.
“Congratulations, Doug, your legacy, hard work, commitment, and dedication will be forever honored,” Gilvesy concluded.
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