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Feb 24

New Report Enhances Vision for Town Centre Revitalization

Posted on February 24, 2021 at 11:31 AM by Carl McBeath

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Residents are looking for increased walkability, neighbourhood connectivity, safety and greenspaces in the downtown core, according to a new report commissioned by Council. The Town Centre Visioning Report builds on the Town Centre Area Plan (TCAP), which was adopted by the City in 2008. It will be used to align the TCAP with feedback received from the community.

The public consultation, which was conducted last fall, identified three major themes:

  • Linking Downtown Attractions: There are several attractions within the Town Centre, such as Memorial Peace Park, Haney House and Port Haney Wharf. The report suggested that improved wayfinding between these places would create a better experience for pedestrians, which could possibly include integration of the Fraser River.
  • Diverse Destinations for Diverse Uses: Citizens highlighted a desire for pocket parks and plazas to provide places for people of all ages to gather. These spaces could also be used to host festivals and other community events. More stores, cafes, pop-up experiences and entertainment venues were proposed to entice visitors to the Town Centre to linger and explore.
  • Social Safety: Residents supported the expansion of Community Social Safety Initiative (CSSI) projects down into Port Haney, providing the entire Town Centre area with a cohesive feeling of security.

“This report lays an exciting foundation for the revitalization of our downtown core,” said Mayor Mike Morden. “Council is eager to continue making the Town Centre a vibrant and complete community by attracting investment and enhancing livability.”

Since 2005, nearly 4,000 new residents have moved to the Town Centre. Today, the population is approaching 12,000 people. Over the past five years, more than 67 development projects have been approved in the area, while more than 78 others are expected to be complete within the next two to three years.

Staff will now begin preparing an implementation plan for the recommendations made in the report.