Voices of Freedom Park on Regent Street was officially opened on Nov. 2, with the goal of celebrating the town’s Black history. However since December of last year, the park’s monuments have been covered as the Town is completing its construction.

Kevin Turcotte, manager of parks & recreation for the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, said park monuments are currently tented while cement work is being done on the tiles of the park path.

“We have to do it in order to put the tiles in and heat the area so it’s the right temperature to set properly,” Turcotte said.

When the park originally opened, there was sand in place so that people could experience what the park would be like when completed, he said, explaining that was done so “[The Town] could open it on time.”

Work is currently underway to put the tiles in place permanently, he said.

“[The contractors] lay the tile, then they grow the gaps … We’re probably going to seal it next year and then it should be great for years to come.”

Turcotte is uncertain when the park will open again, and said he would have to contact the contractors to find out.

“The park was well-supported by the community, local organizations, businesses and people,” he added. “We were really happy with the opening that happened in November.”

“I think it’s going to be a great public art installation for years to come.”

A in-depth story of the financials behind Voices of Freedom Park is in the works. Check out Niagaranow.com frequently for updates.