From rail lands to park lands...
Milestones:
Community Waterfront Friends
1. Purchase of the CP rail lands by the City of North Bay (1999, 2003)
2. Council investment in Community Waterfront Friends (CWF) Vision (2007) for the park over pursuing private uses for the site.
3. City investment in the downtown through the Downtown Community Improvement Plan (DCIP).
4. Investment in the pedestrian underpass, Civic Plaza, museum and transit terminal in and adjacent to the park; and
5. New development in proximity to the park fostered through investment in the park.
Community Waterfront Friends
Community Waterfront Friends
On Nov 24, 2010, CWF (Community Waterfront Friends) launched its first-ever public fundraising efforts, the “Leaves of Inspiration Pergola”, to raise funds for the organization's $1 million commitment to the final infrastructure phase of the Waterfront Park. This phase included shaping and greening of the entire park which included berming, planting the initial trees and shrubs, the Civic Plaza, and landscaped parking areas. Other components such as a splash pad and the addition of a heritage rail line coming up to the museum did not proceed.
Design of Next Phase of Downtown Waterfront
Design of Next Phase of Downtown Waterfront
The 2017 Downtown Waterfront Master Plan (DWMP) set out a clear vision for improving North Bay’s downtown waterfront. As part of this project, design work will focus on the large open space behind the North Bay Museum. The goal is to create a layout that fits well with nearby attractions, including the Family of Rotary Splash Pad and Accessible Playground, the North Bay and Dionne Quints Museums, Multi-Use Courts, and the Kiwanis All Wheel Park.
This project builds on many decades of improvements throughout the area. It will add new features that support recreation, tourism, and community activities, helping make the downtown waterfront a more vibrant and welcoming place for everyone.