A final design concept has been decided upon for the City Centre Park that will be coming to Downtown Pickering. Investment details were not released.
The design includes a large central gathering and event space, a summer misting feature, a winter skating rink and skating trails, winding pathways, shaded seating areas, perimeter planting, lawn spaces, and a public art plaza visible from the street.
Together, these features will create a flexible public space for major events, everyday use, and all-season community life, while reflecting Pickering’s proximity to the Oak Ridges Moraine and larger ecological systems, said a city statement.
It said MacLennan Jaunkalns Miller Architects will now proceed with the design development phase. This next stage will include presentations to the Community Safety & Well-Being Advisory Committee, the Accessibility Advisory Committee, and the Cultural Advisory Committee for further input on the council-endorsed concept.
Subject to 2027 budget approval, the project is anticipated to be tendered in spring 2027, with construction expected to begin in summer 2027. Construction of the park features is expected to take approximately 12 months.
Vital Role of Downtowns
This marks a major step in transforming Pickering’s downtown into a vibrant, connected, and people-focused destination, said a city statement.
Approved by council at its May 25 meeting, the preferred design sets the vision for a landmark public space that will serve as a year-round gathering place for residents, visitors, businesses, and community partners, supporting Pickering’s long-term vision for a more inclusive, connected, caring, and prosperous city.
“Downtowns play a vital role in the economic and social life of cities. They are places where people gather, celebrate, connect, shop, work, and experience the identity of a community,” said Mayor Kevin Ashe. “City Centre Park is a key investment in that future, creating a stronger sense of place and supporting Pickering’s continued growth as a dynamic urban centre, and we are especially proud that our residents helped shape its innovative and exciting design.”
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