This week Council had before it 2 concepts for the future of “library Sq”. While Council in the majority had voted in favour of Concept 2, at general committee last week, as a number of concerns had been raised with regards to that option – in particular, accessibility concerns raised by the Library Board – a revised plan for Concept 2 was presented that sought to address the concerns raised.
Specifically, the design team made some alterations to the design of Concept 2 that would provide for enhanced accessible parking as well as for a vehicle entrance not only from Victoria street as was originally planned but a new entrance off Yonge as well. This alteration to Concept 2 will provide better accessible parking and drop off capabilities than the Library currently has which is a fantastic improvement of accessibility services for our community.
The revised Concept 2 plan addresses the accessibility concerns by providing better drop off capability, additional parking a spaces for both accessible parking and expectant mother parking while at the same time creating a vibrant town square that will link the cultural centre and the library to become a focal point of our downtown core!!.. This is indeed an exciting time for Aurora. It is the realization of 20 years worth of hard work by our residents, our staff and councils past and present, coming together towards a community vision of Library Square. Council voted in favour (7-1) of the revised Concept 2 (Councillor Abel opposed)
Now that we have an approved concept – the consultants and design firm will look to refine the design, making further adjustments, that will address specific design elements. I’m looking forward to hearing from the accessibility advisory committee when the detailed designs go before them; and providing their feedback and recommendations to council… As I said at the table, this is a concept that has been in the works for nearly 2 decades and has consumed this whole term as we have worked our way to creating what will become a revitalized downtown core…. With this decision, Council in the majority has acted decisively to make the community’s vision for the heart of our community a reality.
So here is the future of the NEW Town Sq, something that will meet the needs of our whole town for generations to come!!
