COGSWELL REDEVELOPMENT: PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSION
The Cogswell Redevelopment Project team is hosting a Kick-Off Event
Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2016 6-8 p.m., Schooner Room, Casino Nova Scotia 1983 Upper Water Street, Halifax. The demolition and redevelopment of the Cogswell Interchange is scheduled to start in 12 to 18 months. While the start date is still a ways off, given the magnitude of this initiative, there is lots of advanced planning to be done. This project will have a significant impact on the North End both during construction, and once it is complete. That is why it is important to have your voice heard, share your concerns, and provide your input into how this project needs to consider the North End.
Cogswell before and after the interchange was built. But what is the future? Attend to the Cogswell Interchange Kick-Off to learn more. (Provincial Surveying & Publishing Company, 1878) (Lee, 2007)
The initial estimated cost for the redevelopment is approximately $65 million. Once complete, the area will reestablish the connection between downtown Halifax, the Halifax waterfront, and the North End through urban design elements, transportation networks, and public spaces. The redevelopment will include six acres of new roads and right-of-ways, four acres of park and public space, and six acres of development parcels. A district energy plan is also being considered, which could potentially benefit some areas beyond the Cogswell lands. This project is a potential game changer for the North End. It is critically important that we are part of the discussion. Please plan to attend the kick-off. You can review past and current documents, and stay update on the project's progress on the Cogswell Interchange Lands Plan website.
In regards to the North End, some of the important things that need to be included as part of the overall Cogswell redevelopment project are:
Establishing a visual and physical connection through urban design from the top of Cornwallis at the Commons, to the bottom where it will meet the redevelopment project. This can be achieved through upgraded lighting fixtures, landscaping, sidewalk treatment, and wayfinding. This is a critical connecting piece for the northern part of the redevelopment project.
Encouraging and supporting redevelopment that will provide pedestrian connections through the the block bordered by Cogswell, Brunswick, Gottingen and Portland Place (where Staples, The Marquee, and Propellor are located). The majority of this block is owned by developers. With a cooperative master plan between individual property owners, this block has the potential of becoming the gateway to the North End.
Integrating landscaping and streetscaping from Cogswell lands into the North End along Gottingen and Brunswick Street to recoonect the urban fabric and the commercial district to the downtown.
Ensuring there is an affordable housing strategy in place to buffer the impact redevelopment will have on local real estate values.
Creating options to extend the district heating proposal into the North End.
If you have other thoughts, please let us know.
