The Commissioner of Development & Infrastructure Services provided an introduction to the presentation and an overview of the process that has occurred thus far. He reviewed the themed design concepts presented to Council at their previous Special Committee of the Whole meetings and the public consultation opportunities throughout the process.
Sara Udow, Process, provided an overview of the first phase of the project which included research and consultation with approximately 3,000 participants, and reviewed the guiding principles applied throughout the designs. She further explained the three masterplan concepts of Energized, Expressive, and Peaceful developed in phase one. The presentation continued with an overview of phase two thus far, including consultation with approximately 400 participants and the five main features for which feedback was collected.
Lisa Rapoport, PLANT Architect Inc., continued the presentation by reviewing the existing Mulock property spaces and layout, and how the three masterplan concepts have been consolidated into the integrated design. The presentation further outlined the Mulock Arboretum plan focused on nature, history, ecology, retreat, community, art, education and food. She explained how the guiding principles were applied to various aspects of the design, and concluded with next steps.
Members of Council queried the presenters regarding the Jim Bond Park connection, parking options off Mulock Drive or in the hydro corridor, and specific design elements such as water features, firepits, and community gardens. They further discussed the path and trail locations, winter maintenance, and accessibility compliance of the parking areas and trails. Members of Council queried staff regarding consultation opportunities for the Newmarket Accessibility Advisory Committee and the Heritage Newmarket Advisory Committee.