GP downtown 2 HR

There’s no doubt about it, Grande Prairie could use a face lift for downtown. Well, that’s exactly what’s going to happen between 2016 and 2020 (construction) where $20 million dollars has been budgeted to make things a little more awesome.

You can see what the ‘vision’ for downtown plans tonight with a presentation, including a movie, from 4-9pm at the Showcase Center (old Catholic Church building) on 102nd ave.

You can also check out this site ourdowntown.ca for some more insight.

Residents’ Input Vital
“It’s important that all Grande Prairie residents have a voice in transforming the downtown,” says Mayor Bill Given. “The community has shared its ideas and the result is an exciting plan to build a dynamic, modern and truly urban environment at the heart of our city.”
Over the past several months, the project has assessed the state of Grande Prairie’s downtown infrastructure and developed strategies to guide future improvements. An extensive community consultation process saw area residents reviewing options for the look, feel and structure of the downtown core.
Shared Festival Theme

The priorities expressed by residents in the consultation process are reflected in the seven goals for the new downtown plan: Urban, Modern, Unique, Attractive, Walkable, Cultural and Active.

The plan preferred by citizens includes a Shared Festival concept. On 100th Avenue, a pedestrian-friendly Urban Avenue focus will include enhanced paving, urban planting zones, community gathering spaces and mid-block crossings to enhance safety.

The Shared Avenue focus on 101st Avenue will serve as the cultural hub of downtown, with a curbless streetscape and uniform paving to support pedestrian access.
Various streetscape elements, including lighting fixtures, planters, furniture, bike racks, signage and building materials, have been selected to create an overall look and feel that will attract growth, support year-round activity and encourage civic pride.
The Downtown Infrastructure Assessment, Streetscape Enhancement and Rehabilitation Project was completed by Morrison Hershfield, with support from NAK Design Strategies and Intelligent Futures.
“Movie Night is a chance for us to share downtown plans with the residents of Grande Prairie and thank them for their input throughout the consultation process,” Mayor Given says.