If you’re missing that bird’s-eye view of Point Pelee, you’re not the only one. But Parks Canada is now working on the issue that closed the tower more than two years ago.

Parks Canada is working on the Tip Tower observation deck, after it was first closed in 2022 for problems with the safety rail.

Jordan Kniaziew is a frequent visitor to Point Pelee National Park, and says he noticed the work over the weekend.

LISTEN: Work begins on Point Pelee observation tower railings

“It was a nice surprise,” he said. “A lot of the rails have been taken off, which is a great sign.

“I know the community has been waiting quite a while … I think it’s pretty exciting for everyone and it’s definitely it’s a great step to getting it open.”

The Tip Tower offers a panoramic view of Canada’s southernmost point. First opened in 2019, it was closed in May 2022 for a defect with the guard rail.

Since then, Parks Canada says an engineering assessment was completed, confirming the tower is structurally sound and the issue was isolated to the guard rail system.

Work began to fix the defect in May, with some of it completed off-site to minimize disruption, Parks Canada said at the time.

When the tower was closed, residents said they were frustrated there was no timeline for the tower’s reopening. In November, Parks Canada said it was hopeful the tower would be open for the Festival of Birds at Point Pelee in May 2024.

The Tip Tower at Point Pelee was first closed in May 2022 for guard rail defects. Work to repair the guard rails is now ongoing. (Submitted by Jordan Kniaziew)

Kniaziew said the community is looking forward to the reopening of the tip tower for the beautiful views it affords of the park.

“Although everyone’s excited that there’s been visual progress, I think the the fact that they still haven’t been able to give an expected date is really tough for people to plan their lives around,” he said.

In a statement, Parks Canada said it “appreciates the excitement from visitors about the Tip Tower.”

“Parks Canada … remains committed to ensuring safety.  Heritage Restoration Inc. commenced onsite work for guardrail replacement Sept. 9, 2024,” a spokesperson said. “You can observe the progress of this work from the base of the tower.”

The spokesperson said the timeline for completion can be affected by a variety of things including weather and material availability.

“As we successfully hit each milestone, we will have more information to provide regarding a timeline for opening,” the spokesperson said.

Kniaziew says the re-opening of the tower is likely to bring “a lot of positive emotions” for park visitors, both locals and tourists.

“I think, you know, we take for granted sometimes — I know I do — living in Leamington, how lucky we are to have such a beautiful national park in our backyard,” he said. 

“I’m sure they didn’t plan for this, but there’s definitely anticipation and a buzz. And you know, I’m expecting, you know, hopefully they do a big celebration when it is open.”