Ontario Construction News staff writer
The City of Peterborough has awarded a contract for the first phase of construction of the Louis Street Urban Park Project to Peak Engineering & Construction Ltd.
Site preparation is expected to begin this week and the first phase of the project will cost $3.25 million. The total budget for the project is $6.3 million with construction being split up into multiple phases and the project expected to be completed near the end of 2021. The contract for the next phase is planned to be awarded in early 2021.
“This is an important milestone in this much anticipated project that will encourage community activity and new private-sector investment in our central area. I’m thrilled to see the start of construction and looking forward to the revitalization the urban park will bring to that area,” said Councillor Kemi Akapo.
“I’m excited to see construction start on this new community space. As we look forward to post-COVID-19, this investment will serve as a catalyst for renewal and growth,” Town Ward Councillor Dean Pappas said. “The Hunter Street Café District shows what can happen when the City leads by creating vibrant community spaces.”
The creation of an urban park at Louis Street and Charlotte Street, just east of Aylmer Street, along with the renewal of Charlotte Street, are key strategies in the City’s Central Area Master Plan.
It will include a large surface for multi-purpose uses for community activities, including a refrigerated outdoor rink in the winter. A public art display will be a part of the urban park as well as large tree plantings and seating areas.
The project has been ongoing since late 2016, including consultation, design work, acquisition of property, and preparation work.
In July 2020, Council supported the selection of Ashburnham Realty as the successful proponent through a competitive process to acquire the rights for the development of a mixed commercial-residential building at the south end of the urban park. The new private development would be designed to integrate into the urban park. It will include facilities in support of the Park such as a change room and public washrooms.
The City welcomes private business and community organizations to consider corporate sponsorship opportunities at the City’s new downtown public space. For more information, please visit peterborough.ca/sponsorpeterborough.