Vision Statement
Regenerate Restore Renew - Approach to Park Renewal
Point Pleasant Park is a natural island of forest within the downtown area of Halifax. The renewal of the forest is well underway due to natural process. A plan for the park must enhance existing uses and
experiences while preserving the natural environment and working gently with the natural systems. Public opinion supports renewal but there is very little support for major change or new facilities. Municipal, tourism and other interests have identified other potential for the park. Our approach will be to develop a plan which will balance new ideas with public opinion and ecological integrity. Our vision is a symbiotic relationship between a healthy urban forest ecology and an active and educated urban population.
In a society where nature is threatened by growth and development, a natural preserve in such close proximity to an urban core is the most valuable "world class" asset that a city can promote. By definition, natural preservation requires a low impact, management based approach with an emphasis on ecological integrity and balance. In an economy where capital and operating resources must be used with purpose and efficiency, the approach to public infrastructure must be community based, sustainable and achieve maximum benefit. All park design must be environmentally, socially and economically responsible. Sustainability of all aspects of the maintenance and operations is essential to the long term success of the park. The park plan produced in 2005 will be one moment in time. The park plan and management program should be reevaluated on a regular basis in order to keep the system in balance.
Environmental Objectives
• reestablish Acadian Forest
• all development and restoration should protect and enhance ecological integrity
• new development to be in accordance with best environmental practice (e.g. LEED
Social Objectives
• park plan must respond to public opinion
• enhance and manage existing uses to minimize impact on natural assets
• create a safe outdoor recreation environment (e.g. CPTED principals)
• as much of the park as possible should be designed to meet Universal Design principles
• priority should be given to pedestrian use: vehicle use and impact should be minimized
• design and upgrade facilities to reflect recreational need priorities
o nature appreciation
o fitness and health
o tourism
Economic Objectives
• design for regional economic reality
• consider long term maintenance cost (life cycle costing)
• utilize long life, low maintenance systems and materials
• in addition to a grander long term vision, consideration should be given to low cost, short term, high impact improvements which will greatly enhance park ecology and experience (Joy Elliott Landscape Architectural)
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