A few weeks a go, myself and a few other long-term Waterfront residents were surprised to learn of a 24-storey skyscraper development for the historical James Ave. Pumping Station on Waterfront Drive.
The following is an idea for an alternative vision for James Avenue and the Pumphouse Station, a bold new idea that is far-reaching, considers future generations, and enhances the livable quality of our city. This new vision is inclusive and humane. It is a plan that will transform the Waterfront area from being a string of stand-alone condos into a real neighbourhood, becoming a dense and lively destination for all of Winnipeg.
This vision is for a place that could be called Pumphouse Park, and the idea includes the development of a revived Pumphouse into a grocery store (such as a Whole Foods) and brew-pub. The Pumphouse would open onto a European-style neighbourhood plaza flanked with coffee shops and small retail merchants which would serve the local community and the theatre district, becoming a gathering place for all. It would work as a compliment to the Forks with a focus on becoming the core for the Waterfront Drive and East Exchange District neighbourhoods.Below are a few quick sketches that loosely convey my vision.
A zoning plan is underfoot and a major parkade has already been approved for the site. Please spread the word that the potential of the Pumphouse and its surrounding area are seriously at risk. Feel free to forward this email and the images below to anyone you think might be interested.
I am not opposed to urban density or new innovative architectural development downtown, however, I feel this is not the place. If you agree, please oppose the height restriction variance for this skyscraper. I will keep you in the loop about how to do so. This site has the potential to be so much more, even if it means us waiting. Working together, we can create an environment unique in Winnipeg, one that emulates popular centres found in world-class cities.
With Optimism,
Wanda Koop
Resident of Waterfront Area
Note: Email sent to a collection of Wanda Koop's friends and colleagues on Friday, August 23, 2013.
With Optimism,
Wanda Koop
Resident of Waterfront Area
Note: Email sent to a collection of Wanda Koop's friends and colleagues on Friday, August 23, 2013.
This is exactly what Waterfront Drive needs to create a sense of community. Think of Yaletown's Roundhouse in Vancouver or the Harbourfront Centre in Toronto.
ReplyDeleteThis is exactly what I envisioned! Now how do we make it happen?
ReplyDelete