The public is invited to share ideas to revitalize a downtown Peterborough alleyway.
On Wednesday evening, the Downtown Vibrancy Project launched the Hunter to Simcoe street alleyway revitalization project with an information and design session at Lett Architects Inc. on Simcoe Street.
The session was held to brainstorm ideas on what the alleyway could potentially look like. A presentation prepared by Lett Architect’s Design Principal Michael Gallant pulled inspiration from alleyways around the world, including those in Montreal and China.
Some of the ideas brought up concerning the Peterborough alley, according to Dawn Pond, whose the coordinator of the Downtown Vibrancy Project, included making the alleyway well lit. Some ideas included public art installations, living walls, permeable pavement, or a green space.
Terry Guiel, executive director of the DBIA, said they’re also working on the alleyway being accessible to those with limited mobility. The alleyway currently has two sets of stairs leading to SImcoe Street.
The Downtown Vibrancy Project is a partnership between the Peterborough Downtown Business Improvement Area (DBIA) and GreenUP. Now in its third year, it will feature the alleyway revitalization as a new project for 2020.
Wednesday’s session included representatives from the City of Peterborough, Lett Architects, Engage Engineering, Tree House Timberworks, Three Sisters Natural Landscapes, Mortlock Construction, Basterfield and Associates, Electric City Culture Council, Public Energy and other downtown businesses, area artists and residents.
There is no indication that the alleyway will absolutely be made into a green space, according to Pond, as public feedback is still being sought through this survey. The alleyway also has to remain accessible by cars after the renovation, according to both Pond and Guiel.
Guiel says the group is excited about the potential for this new phase of the Downtown Vibrancy Project.
“With the ideas we’re gathering and the power of these partnerships, there’s a great opportunity to transform this alleyway into a vibrant space that is more accessible and has increased value for residents and local businesses,” he said.
Two years ago, the Downtown Vibrancy Project completed the biggest Depave Paradise project in Canada that year with the garden installation at 100 Water St., behind the No Frills grocery store.
Last year, a low-use section of a parking lot outside Euphoria Wellness Spa was transformed into a green space with benches, boardwalks and trees. The park was named Jiimaan’ndewengadnong, or “The Place Where the Heart of the Canoe Beats.” The area will soon showcase two canoe-themed public art pieces created by local Anishinaabe artist Tia Cavanagh.
To get involved in the Downtown Vibrancy Project, visit online or email Dawn Pond of GreenUP.
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