New Park in Calgary's Beltline

This was something I had worked on so long ago, I had almost forgot entirely that I had done so. Workshops do have impacts and implementation strategies; just not at the frequency one might expect.

http://2.beltline.ca/community/parks-public-places/new-park-beltline

A third of a block in Beltline's Connaught Centre neighbourhood is slated to become a full featured public park.

Keeping the green space west of the former Carl Safran Centre has been a long standing community goal. With persistent effort and the help of then Alderman Madeleine King, the city bought the land along 9 street between 12 and 13 avenues when Calgary Board of Education's new trustee headquarters, administration building and conference centre were approved.

There was strong support for introducing the different features of mixed-use park that people of all ages can enjoy year round.

Ideas stemming from the exercise included pathways along 'desire lines' and a clear preference for emphasizing beauty and 'passive uses' while including 'active' opportunities. A double row of trees along the 9 street side of the park and preservation of sightlines to the historic Calgary Collegiate Institute building were identified as important considerations.

Charrette participants saw an ‘X’ pattern with paths intersecting near the middle of the park. Curves and landscaping along pathways were suggested to help to create a more enjoyable experience.

The charrette also called for a small landscaped transit plaza on 12 avenue. Better integrating the bus stop on 12 avenue into an interesting and enjoyable waiting area was another strongly favoured idea.

On the west side of the park, participants envisioned an area with slight undulations in the topography, and denser planting of a variety of vegetation. This would be the most passive part of the park; a place for quiet contemplation, and enjoyment of the various plants. It would be separated from 9 street by lining the sidewalk with a double row of trees.

Even though no one wanted the entire area to remain an open field, some still desired an area to throw a frisbee or kick a ball. The area along 13 avenue was envisioned for more active recreation or exercise.

Beltline's Parks & Public Places involved eighteen Beltline residents including two landscape architects in the charette. (Cole is on the right presenting, above)