WHITEHORSE TOWN SQUARE DESIGN
In January 2024, the City of Whitehorse hired 3Pikas to facilitate the engagement process, develop options for a new town square, and provide recommendations to Council. The scope of work included reviewing background documents and reports, engaging with the community, identifying a new location, and developing a concept for the new town square.
The intensive one-day engagement provided businesses, NGOs, and key interested parties with the opportunity to participate in a series of workshops.
Ideas explored included the waterfront, a smaller, more ‘cozy’ town square, improved programming and accessibility, additional market spaces for food trucks, greater advertising, and more space for civic events.
The 2024 Town Square project was developed based on the perspectives of various community members from the 2023 Town Square. This engagement highlights the necessity for a thorough and inclusive approach to the town square, effectively addressing the participants' concerns regarding location, parking, traffic flow, and programming.
The waterfront and wharf area was chosen as the preferred location, emphasizing the recognition of the Yukon River's significance as a natural asset with substantial community importance and tourism appeal. The final concept includes opportunities for live music, markets, food trucks, art demonstrations, and areas for pedestrians to walk and relax. The Town Square creates an inviting environment for both locals and tourists.
Acknowledgment: In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the Traditional Territory of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council and Kwanlin Dün First Nation and all people who make the City of Whitehorse their homes and whose relationships with the land continue to this day.