No. H109/03For release September 29, 2003
TORONTO -- Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and David Collenette, Minister of Transport, Minister responsible for the Greater Toronto Area and for Parc Downsview Park Inc., today dedicated Downsview Park to Canada's future generations at a ceremony to launch the last stage of public consultations on the design of the park.
"The creation of parks and green spaces in an urban environment is an important step which must be taken to contribute to Canada's environmental heritage," said the Prime Minister. "Now is the time for Canadians to preserve our environment for future generations."
"The Government of Canada is committed to maintaining the beauty and liveability of Canadian cities by ensuring that green spaces are preserved," said Mr. Collenette. "With close to 600 acres of land, the park represents one of the largest urban redevelopment opportunities in Canada."
Downsview Park is a major federal urban park. It is operated by Parc Downsview Park Inc., an agent Crown corporation, which is mandated to manage and develop part of the Downsview lands as an urban recreational greenspace to be held in trust and perpetuity for the enjoyment of future generations.
The design concept for Downsview Park is being created by Tree City Inc., which consists of Bruce Mau Design Inc. and includes PMA Landscape Architects, Oleson Worland Architects and SNC-Lavalin. It is based on the principles of sustainability, while recognizing the importance of the economic, ecological and social systems affecting the park.
"Thousands of Canadians use and already enjoy Downsview Park every year," said Downsview Park Board of Directors Chair Dr. David Bell. "This last stage of public consultation that begins today will help ensure the park is developed in a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable way and that it will be treasured for generations to come."
A backgrounder with more information on Downsview Park is attached.
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BACKGROUNDER
DOWNSVIEW PARK
Toronto's Downsview Park, which was dedicated to Canadians on September 29, 2003, is a major federal urban park. The approximately 600 acre site is operated by Parc Downsview Park Inc., an agent Crown corporation, which is mandated to manage and develop part of the Downsview lands on a self-financing basis as a unique urban recreational green space to be held in trust and in perpetuity for the enjoyment of future generations. Approximately 300 acres will consist of green space for public enjoyment. The remaining area will be developed commercially to support the operation of the park.
The design concept of Downsview Park is being created by Tree City Inc. and led by Bruce Mau Design Inc. in association with PMA Landscape Architects, Oleson Worland Architects and SNC-Lavalin. It is based on the principles of sustainability, while recognizing the importance of the economic, ecological and social systems affecting the park.
The "Tree City" design concept has been incorporated into the overall plan. It identifies three distinct, yet fully integrated zones -- Action, Promenade and Cultivation Campus -- which take advantage of the site's existing natural features. Each zone creates distinct and unique park experiences and connects the site to an evolving community.
Future plans also include the development of exciting sports and recreational opportunities, as well as a variety of cultural amenities.
Throughout the month of October 2003, the public will be able to visit a comprehensive and informative exhibit that includes plans, artist's renderings, images and narrative text of the overall proposed park concept, and offer feedback. Interested parties can also attend a series of open houses culminating in a public meeting on October 30, 2003, to voice their opinions of the design.
Following public consultations, Parc Downsview Park Inc. will propose a final master plan in early 2004.
The exhibit is located at Downsview Park headquarters, 35 Carl Hall Road, Downsview Park, and is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. Visit www.pdp.ca for more information.
September 2003
