WHISTLE BEND FUTURE AREAS & TOWN SQUARE

This partnership between the City of Whitehorse and the Government of Yukon (Community Services) aimed at achieving an innovative and integrated comprehensive master plan for the last remaining areas in the Whistle Bend community. As part of Future Area A, between Keno Street and the Continuing Care facility, an empty lot defines the center of the Whistle Bend community.

To develop the design concept, the City of Whitehorse and 3Pikas delivered an extremely successful engagement process involving the public and numerous key stakeholders from multiple City departments. Through on-site pop-up info tables, surveys, open houses, community café, and site walks, community input helped shape the design.

3Pikas, working alongside WSP and Associated Engineering, led the design of the event plaza and streetscape. This all-season gathering space features art installations, a pop-up farmers’ market, a skating rink / entertainment stage, and a history and a variety of plantings that reflect Yukon’s natural landscapes.

Central to 3Pikas’ design ethos was creating a space for community gatherings and year-round enjoyment. The upper plaza serves as a perfect setting for leisurely picnics, summer concerts, performances, and various events.

Situated at a the centre of the neighbourhood, the site anchors the new commercial/entertainment district and reimagines Whistle Bend’s public realm and streetscapes. Enhancing connectivity, the public realm stands out as a place of celebration, distinct and unified in its design. The streetscape and plaza are pivotal junctions within this narrative, offering iconic experiences while serving as day-to-day spaces for convention-goers and locals alike.

Alongside planning, design, and community engagement, the scope of work included developing an infrastructure and servicing plan as well as cost estimates. 3Pikas examined various potential financing, management, and stewardship models. The success of the town square depends on implementing an effective management plan, stewardship model, and programming plan. To ensure the town square becomes active and remains clean, accessible, and inviting, varying degrees of upkeep and management should take place.