The Lansdowne Park design competition jury announced Design B as the winning proposal for the new urban park space yesterday afternoon.
Win Place Show, by firm Phillips Farevaag Smallenberg, comes at a price tag of $68 million, but if suggested modifications, including eliminating a foot bridge, an artificial reversible island in the middle of the canal, and reducing stormwater management costs are made, the price could be lower.
In its decision, the jury said the design “reinstates the site as an important civic presence alongside the historic Rideau Canal.” Jurors were pleased the plan respects “the heritage values and the full presence of the Aberdeen Pavilion, as it also successfully integrates the historic Pavilion within the park space and within the development area.”
The design “is probably one of the most imaginative … beautiful and intricate community parks,” said urban planner George Dark.
The designer, Greg Smallenberg, “wants to bring rural Ottawa into the city, and he wants to have people … understand the legacy of agriculture,” Dark said.
The park offers a multitude of uses for many people, said Dark.
Council will vote on both the urban park design and Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group’s proposal for the new stadium and commercial complex at the end of the month.
