The future of Olympic Plaza in Calgary is becoming clearer thanks to feedback from Calgarians. The Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) conducted a public engagement process through an online survey and in-person events to gather input on the redesign of the plaza. The feedback highlighted the importance of creating a space that is easy to gather in, with features such as green space, a performance area, festive lighting, an outdoor eatery, and the return of the popular skating rink. Safety concerns and the need for increased awareness of programming in the area were also emphasized by residents.
The revitalized Olympic Plaza will fall under the management of Arts Commons, with the goal of redefining the space as a blend of civics and culture. The organization plans to coordinate public programming that will open up the space to the more than 200 groups it currently serves. This approach aims to provide a platform for community groups to innovate and utilize shared resources, ultimately creating a vibrant and engaging cultural hub in the heart of downtown Calgary.
The plaza is a central part of the city’s downtown strategy, connecting Calgarians with the various offerings in the downtown core. It serves as a gathering place for residents to both pass through and hang out, similar to a living room in a house. The design team is working to incorporate the plaza’s history, including the legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics that brought the space to Calgary. Despite the decision not to include the Olympic bricks that line the plaza in the new design, efforts are being made to commemorate their significance through digital mapping and family-friendly events.
The design team is also focused on addressing safety concerns in the area, such as lighting and layout, to ensure that residents feel secure when visiting the plaza. The new design will aim to make the space adaptable and welcoming to a diverse range of communities and groups who use Olympic Plaza for various events and celebrations. The goal is to create a space that reflects the spirit of ’88 while looking towards the future, acknowledging the history of the plaza while incorporating modern design elements and features that meet the needs and desires of Calgarians.
Overall, the feedback from Calgarians has played a crucial role in shaping the future of Olympic Plaza. The input received through the public engagement process has provided valuable insights into the desires and concerns of residents, informing the design and development of the transformed space. With a focus on creating a vibrant, safe, and adaptable community hub, the revitalized Olympic Plaza is set to become a central gathering place that reflects the spirit and diversity of Calgary. The collaboration between CMLC, Arts Commons, and other stakeholders will be instrumental in bringing this vision to life and creating a space that truly belongs to the people of Calgary.
