A new weather-protected public space is set to be constructed at Cleveland Avenue in Downtown Squamish, providing a new gathering spot for residents, the district said in a press release, adding that a long-term plan to realign the parking is being considered to compensate for parking stalls taken away by the structure.
The new public space will be built on a District-owned public lot and the Squamish Farmers’ Market site, following public feedback for more sheltered areas in public spaces across the community.
The District staff collaborated with the Squamish Farmers’ Market and Downtown Squamish Business Improvement Association to determine the shelter’s location and design, aiming to bring the greatest benefit to the downtown area and increase accessibility to the Squamish Farmer’s Market entrance, district said.
“Our commitment to creating safe and healthy spaces for people to gather has remained consistent over the years since first hearing from residents about the lack of sheltered spaces in Squamish during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says Mayor Armand Hurford. “I am so pleased to be able to work with our community partners on projects like this that create a more safe and vibrant community for everyone to enjoy.”
The new weather-protected public space will mirror the look and size of its two counterparts located in Stan Clarke Park and at 38174 Cleveland Avenue and will be wheelchair accessible. The $100k budget for the new structure is fully funded by the Canadian Healthy Communities Initiative, an investment initiative from the Government of Canada to transform public spaces in response to the COVID-19 event.
“The addition of the shelter at the Squamish Farmers Market site will certainly enhance accessibility into the market. It will provide individuals on market day with a welcoming space to gather and shelter from any weather conditions,” says Downtown Squamish BIA Executive Director Kerry Neil.
“The shelter will facilitate better access to the market and to the improved accessible parking in that lot, which will be available every other day of the week. Additionally, it promises to serve as a versatile event and gathering space. I am looking forward to seeing it used regularly by the patrons of the food trucks in the area.”
