News Release - Johnston Road Design Charrette

(November 17, 2016) – Today, the City of Port Alberni released the summary report from the design charrette for Johnston Road & Northport commercial area.  The project is bringing together diverse stakeholders and the City to generate a cohesive vision and coordinated approach for recommendations, improvements, and potential investments in the area.

The report presents a detailed picture of the two-day process held October 22-23, 2016 at the Best Western Barclay Hotel.  The process started with participants gaining an understanding of current state of Johnston Road, then moved to establish a vision for Johnston Road in the future, and finally looked into the details and priorities for how to achieve this vision.

The report highlights the input and concepts discussed, including:

• Close part of Victoria Quay to create a pedestrian only zone and expanded park space.
• Create a strong entry point at east end of City to welcome and be first indication of arrival.
• Continue median from Cherry Creek Road south to Northport to slow traffic and beautify streetscape.
• Create a family attraction at Williamson Park with components like: adventure park, all-seasons outdoor slides, BMX/pump track etc.
• Convert the intersection at the foot of Johnston Road with Victoria Quay to a 1-lane roundabout.
• Create programs for temporary side street closures for events like a sunset market “Market on Margaret”.

Participants identified a number of potential priorities, including: traffic calming and streetscape improvements along Johnston Road, increased street trees in curb extensions, improvements to Victoria Quay Park, and stormwater and infrastructure enhancements.

The City is inviting the public to review the report and share their feedback on the concepts and proposals. Written submissions can be dropped off at City Hall or emailed to scott_smith@portalberni.ca

Preferred options developed through the charrette and public input will be included in a conceptual plan that will be provided for City Council’s consideration. 

A charrette is a collaborative design and planning session that brings together technical staff from the City with business owners and community members to develop a land use and urban design concept for a particular area.

Read the Johnston Road and Northport Commercial Area Charrette Summary

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For more information:

Scott Smith, City Planner
250-720-2808
scott_smith@portalberni.ca

Patrick Deakin, Economic Development Manager
250-720-2527
patrick_deakin@portalberni.ca