In 2019 Sparwood initiated a project plan to revitalize Centennial Square. The initiative has three distinct phases:
This past fall we met with the community and developed a guidance document for a landscape architect to create two concepts plans. During this initial consultation process nearly 200 people came out and provided input on what they would like to see if Sparwood redeveloped Centennial Square. What we heard was that the majority of residents wanted to see a usable event space, that was attractive and inviting to spend time in. We also heard that it was very important to respect the existing mining epitaph although it need not be the central point in the design.
From the guidance document two concept plans were developed. A preferred plan was further refined through discussions with Sparwood staff and the design company. The plan was submitted to Council on December 17, 2019 for consideration and is now available to residents to review and provide feedback. The Concept Plan has several components including creating connectivity to Aspen Drive, by improving the Red Cedar Drive and the Lane that connects Centennial Square Drive to Spruce Avenue and Aspen Drive; enhancing Centennial Square Drive; and redesigning Centennial Square. Below is an overview of these three areas.
Some examples of communities that have revitalized their main streets include Revelstoke, Kimberley and Rossland. Visit their websites to see what some of the possibilities can look like.
Centennial Square is the traditional commercial core of Sparwood. While much of the commercial activity has shifted to Aspen Drive, Centennial Square still provides the best pedestrian-scale and community-oriented commercial area in Sparwood. Grants are available to support this type of investment in community infrastructure and economic development.
This project aligns with Council's Strategic Priorities.
This project has four main phases:
This slideshow shows images of Centennial Square in the past, as well as conceptual plans that were developed through the years.