The Foot of Lonsdale is undergoing major changes!
Changes are underway on the Foot of Lonsdale to make way for a new public open space as well as the Presentation House Gallery’s new facility, to be named Polygon Gallery in honour of its lead donor. There are three main project components:
- Sub-Surface Upgrades
- Public Open Space
- Presentation House Gallery
1. Sub-Surface Upgrades
The sub-surface construction is now complete. The subsurface work removed the existing deck structure that comprised the eastern portion of the site as well as the Cates Shed. Upgrades were completed across the entire site with a seismic wall defining a new shoreline edge as well as site remediation. The sub-surface work prepared the site to allow for the development of the public open space and Presentation House Gallery.
2. Public Open Space + 3. Presentation House Gallery
The City of North Vancouver and Presentation House Gallery are working together to create an animated and lively space at the Foot of Lonsdale. The key features that will be integrated into the Foot of Lonsdale are as follows:
- Creation of an inviting public open space directly at the Foot of Lonsdale;
- Integration of the Presentation House Gallery with ground level retail opportunities to animate the site and build economic vitality within the Central Waterfront Area;
- Integration of the Spirit Trail as a defining feature through the site;
- Integration of substantial outdoor dining area for the Coppersmith Shop (Tap & Barrel Restaurant);
- Integration of the Cates Deck area as public gathering area;
- Pedestrian and vehicular improvements to Carrie Cates Court and Lonsdale.
Construction of the open space will occur in two phases (click here for phase site plan). The first phase is anticipated to be complete Spring 2016. The second phase will be constructed in coordination with Presentation House Gallery construction, anticipated to be completed in 2017. View the Presentation House Gallery website.
View our progress
Click the image to view photo gallery
Click image to view photo gallery
How we got here:
The key steps taken as part of the design and consultation phase for the Open Space and Presentation House Gallery design are as follows:
- In 2010 / 2011, the City undertook a conceptual land use plan and open space design process for the Foot of Lonsdale in coordination with both the Presentation House Gallery and the Washington Marine Group.
- In 2012, a Central Waterfront Visioning process was also undertaken, further clarifying a focus on the Foot of Lonsdale as an open space, with Lot 5 as a more actively programmed site. At that time, it was envisioned that the Presentation House Gallery could be rehoused in Cates Shed.
- In October 2012, Council endorsed the removal of the Cates Shed due to structural and geotechnical considerations, and it was determined that consideration be given to incorporating the Presentation House Gallery in a new building at the Foot of Lonsdale. This resulted in new design options.
- In September / October 2013 Council endorsed moving forward with the design and consultation phase for the open space and Presentation House Gallery. To view the open space design presentation provided to Council in September 2013, click here.
- An Open House was held on November 5, 2013. To view the Open House Presentation Boards, click here.
- On April 28, 2014 a design update on the Foot of Lonsdale Open Space / Presentation House Gallery project was presented to Council. To view Council Report & Design Update click here. The design update reflected feedback received through the public consultation phase as well as technical and feasibility considerations. As part of the April 28, 2014 Council meeting, clarification on the future location of the PGE Station was sought. Council approved moving the design forward, and opted to consider Waterfront Park as an alternative location for the PGE Station.
- On May 26, 2014 a Zoning Amendment Bylaw was brought forward for Council's consideration and referral to a Public Hearing. To view Council Report May 26, 2014 click here.
- A Public Hearing was held for the Zoning Amendment on June 16, 2014. To view the Public Hearing video click here.
- On June 23, 2014 Council endorsed the rezoning of the Foot of Lonsdale site. A Comprehensive Development Zone was created for the entire lot (land and water) which allows for public open space and Commercial, Waterfront, Marine, and Civic uses (including a proposed gallery).
