The expansion of Civic Square focuses on several key objectives. Please note, the following is only a summary of the main themes captured during the April 24 Public Workshop.

• Creating a Welcoming Environment: We aim to develop a space that is not only accessible but also vibrant, safe, and comfortable for everyone.
  
  At the Public Workshop, we received feedback that you would like lighting; noise mitigation from Main Street and consideration of adjacent lands including residential; and that safety of users (security) be considered.
  
  
• Celebrating Our Heritage: The design will respect and integrate the town’s cultural history, ensuring our past is honoured.
  
  At the public workshop, we received feedback that we need to commemorate the cultural heritage of the Town, not just the features specific to the site, including honouring Indigenous past and our peaceful history; you are also interested in the showcasing of educational, interactive, artistic, and/or fun elements to celebrate the Town's history; as well as to consider the preservation of heritage elements first before considering re-use of materials; balancing preservation vs. function.
  
  
• Fostering Community Identity: By integrating arts, culture, festivals, and events, the expanded square will be a cornerstone for community engagement.
  
  At the public workshop, we received feedback that the space should be utilized to provide music, entertainment, art, and market opportunities; that it should strengthen both physical and cultural connections; and the landscaping should be softened with the addition of greenery, planters, colours, and patterns.
  
  
• Enhancing Connectivity: Improving walkability and adding amenities will make the square a more connected and pedestrian-friendly environment.
  
  At the public workshop, we received feedback that the connection for different modes between Main Street and Memorial Park should be improved (treating the site as a gateway, including adjacent properties); that the space should provide accessible elements and features; and that there are unobstructed paths throughout the site through proper programming of the space such as placement of furniture and planters).

The Public Workshop took place on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 19 on the Park, 19 Civic Avenue.

A drawing was presented at this meeting, which you can now view online. Thank you to all who participated in the workshop. For those who could not attend, there will be additional opportunities to give feedback and participate shortly.

Expanding our urban parkland is a pivotal development as Stouffville continues to grow amidst increasing urban activity. This is a unique opportunity for you to directly impact the transformation of our downtown core. We look forward to your participation and input, helping us to craft a space that truly reflects the spirit of our community.