Windsor City Council has approved spending half a million dollars for planning the first phase of the outdoor space between Windsor City Hall and the riverfront.
Phase 1 will consist of public consultation starting this December and hiring a team to develop conceptual designs for the Civic Esplanade and City Hall Square. Plans could be ready as early as May 2021.
Some councillors wanted to hold off on the project citing concerns over budget overtures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it was ultimately decided it was important to have the plans in place so the project could be "shovel ready" should any grant opportunities arise.
Council applied to the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program but did not receive funding for the project.
The city already issued a request for proposals (RFP) for design services for the Civic Esplanade and City Hall Square Phase 1 on June 12, 2020. According to a report to the council, the RFP generated a lot of interest. The project team is evaluating the service proposals and will be conducting interviews prior to the announcement of the successful candidate.
The successful candidate will be responsible for consulting with all stakeholders.
-With files from Adelle Loiselle
