Blood Alley Square/Trounce Alley Redesign public...

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Blood Alley Square/Trounce Alley Redesign

d.WGDesign Studio

August 2016Concept Designs Questionnaire

and Engagement Summary



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Background

• The City of Vancouver is redesigning Blood Alley Square and Trounce Alley,important public spaces in the heart of Gastown, which is a designatedheritage area and a National Historic Site.

• In 2010 the City met with local residents and business to identify theirpriorities and developed concepts for the square. For the current squareredesign, the previous preliminary designs were a stepping off point . Thepublic were asked to share their thoughts on these and other preliminaryconcepts.

• From June 2 to June 18, 2016, members of the public were able to providetheir input on the kick-off events.

• From August 24 to September 24, 2016, members of the public were ableto provide their input on the concept designs.

A total 232 people attended the August Concept Design Open Houses and 187 respondents provided feedback on the Blood Alley Square and Trounce Alley redesign by completing a questionnaire accessible in the following ways:• Open house events held on August 24 and August 27, 2016 (please see the

following page for a summary of the open house events);• Open invitation to the general public via the Blood Alley Square and

Trounce Alley Redesign page on the City of Vancouver website; • and email invitation sent to Talk Vancouver panel members.

Who did we hear from?

• The majority of respondents lived Downtown (64%), and 52% were between 20-39 years of age. An additional 40% were 40-59 years old.

• 34% live in the neighbourhood of Gastown, 26% work in the area and asignificant proportion frequented the area for entertainment (61%).



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Summary of Questionnaire Results

The results of the hard-copy and online questionnaire, feedback from conversations at the Concept Design open houses indicated that there is support for both concepts presented. The percentage results of the questionnaire do not show significant favour for one concept over the other. Instead there are some suggestions made through comments which include:

• Work on lighting, signage, public art opportunities as concepts are developed.• That the next steps suggest ideas for programming• Keeping the unique ‘gritty’ character of Gastown in Blood Alley Square.

Summary of Concept Design Open Houses

Hosting the open houses in Blood Alley Square was successful again in being on site and soliciting a lot of interested parties such as the businesses and residents. Many were aware of the project and the open houses and have been keenly following the progress. We were further able to engage with the DTES community who were on site or walking by.

As indicated in the summary of the kick-off events, the consultant team has been engaging with more members of the DTES community through meetings, presentations and workshops. The team will be continuing to meet with stakeholders to solicit feedback and comments. As well, the team has participated in Advisory Committee meetings with the Vancouver Heritage Commission, combined workshop with Urban Design Panel and Gastown Historic Area Planning Committee and will be reporting to City Council.



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Question 1

1.

•

June 30, 2016 Report on Engagement 1

0

12.5

25

37.5

50

Really like it Like it Neutral Dislike it Don't like it at all

Question 1:

Concept 1 proposes to retain much of the 1970s heritage form and shape as possible. For instance, the cobble, red brick bands and tree planters are in a similar location as they are today.

What do you think of this approach?

Other suggestions provided by 43% of the respondents include:

• That the design does not retain enough of the history.

• That the 1970s heritage is irrelevant

• Consider other methods to emphasizing heritage other than the triangular brickpattern.

• Consider how the concept can be made more relevant to the historic character.

Most respondents liked the approach of this concept to retain as much of the 1970s heritage form and shape as possible.

27%

47%

17%

6% 3%

Results:

CONCEPT 1 - OPEN SQUARE



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2.


0

12.5

25

37.5

50


Question 2:

In concept 1, the Square is a flat, large open space suitable for larger gatherings and special events and performances.

What do you think of the Square being designed in this way?

70% like the design of the Square for a flat, large open space.


• Consider more animation and programming to the site such as restaurant patioseating, garden and events

• That the open space concept will encourage too many events and largeperformances.

• Consideration for noise pollution.

• That a lot of programming will be required to make Square appealing.

21%

49%

18%

7%5%

Results:




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Question 3:In concept 1, the Square is integrated into the 33 W Cordova development by asingle flight of stairs (approximately 1.2 metre high) for access between theSquare and the development. There will be guardrails in some locations.

What do you think of this approach to integrating the Square with 33 W Cordova?

Another suggestion provided by the respondents include:

• That the redesign of the Square inform the redevelopment

3.


0

12.5

25

37.5

50


12%

41%

29%

13%

4%

53% agree that it is important to integrate the redesign of Blood Alley Square with that of the redevelopment.

Results:


• That the steps are imposing.

• That a ramp would be better for accesssibility.

• Consider how more pedestrians will move from Water Street, through Gaoler’sMews to Blood Alley Square and onto Cordova Street.




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Question 4:In this concept, permanent seating is provided through concrete benches between Trounce Alley and the Square.

What do you think of this approach to providing seating in the Square?

4.


0

12.5

25

37.5

50


Other suggestions provided by 43% respondents include:

• Benches made of concrete will not be comfortable.

65% like the approach of permanent seating through concrete benches.

16%

49%

17%

13%

5%

Results:




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Question 5:As a goal of the redesign, both concepts look to re-use existing materials as well as integrate new materials into the Square.

What do you think of the use materials proposed for concept 1?5.


0

30

60

90

120

Dislike it Like It Neutral Don't no/No Opinon

Re-use of redbrick pavers

Re-use of granite cobble

Re-use of granite slabs from planters

Timber decking

Weatherediron bands

Concrete

86% 90%82%

72% 79%

36%

There is support for re-use of existing materials and new materials such as timber decking and weathered iron bands. There is not much support for use of concrete.

Results:

Other suggestions provided by 43% of respondents include:

• Use existing and new materials in the same palette.

• Need to see lighting incorporated.




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Question 6:What is your overall opinion of concept 1 - Open Square?

6.


0

15

30

45

60



• That the design is boring, too sterile and does not have the Gastown “feel”.

• That more options should be explored.

• That the design will not draw people into the Square.

55%

18%

Results:

15%9%

4%


70% of respondents like the Concept 1 - Open Square



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Question 1:Concept 2 proposes a multi-level form and shape for the Square.

What do you think of the Square designed in this way?Concept 2

1.


0

10

20

30

40


4%

9%

18%

38%

32%

70% like the design as a multi-level Square

Results:

CONCEPT 2 - MULTI-LEVEL SQUARE


• That the design is more unique and dynamic.

• That is design is more visually interesting.

• That the design may impede visability.

• That the design has more greenery as compared to Concept 1, which is beneficial.



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2. Trees


0

15

30

45

60


Question 2:The planters are expanded to maintain health of existing trees.

What do you think about this approach?

Other suggestions provided by 41% of respondents include::

• Integrate expanded planters into Concept 1.

• That the additional greenery is good

1%3%

9%

33%

55%

Results:

Most respondents are in favour of expanded planters to maintain the health of the existing trees.




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Question 3:In concept 2, the Square is designed to have two (2) multi-level smaller decks for activities such as seating and socializing, events and performances, outdoorrestaurant patios etc.

What do you think of the Square designed in this way?


• Square should be used a large amphitheatre as required.

• That the space should be dedicated to restuarant patio use.

• That there should be more spaces for performances and events.

3.


0

12.5

25

37.5

50


78% of respondents like the Square to be designed with multi-level smaller decks for activities such as seating and socializing, events and performances, outdoor restaurant patios etc.

Results:

41%

37%

9% 10%

3%




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Question 4:In concept 2, the grade difference between 33 W Cordova and Trounce Alley is broken up by two smaller flights of steps (as opposed to one single flight of stairs in Concept 1). This approach creates a gradual transition between the development and Trounce Alley and eliminates the need for guard rails and railings.

What do you think of the Square designed in this way?4.


0

12.5

25

37.5

50



• Lighting to enhance accessibility for visually impaired or requiring mobilitydevices

A large number of respondents like the gradual transition between the development and Trounce Alley.

33%

40%

17%

8%

Results:


3%



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Question 5:In concept 2, permanent seating is integrated into the stairs which have expanded width and height to accommodate seating.

What do you think of this approach to providing seating in the Square?5.


0

10

20

30

40



• That the integrated seating is visually appealing.

• Seating should not be permanent.

• That the use of steps as seating is versatile and casual.

• That the steps in Concept 1 should integrate seating.

33%

39%

16%

10%

3%

72% of respondents like the integration of permanent seating into the stairs.

Results:




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6.


0

30

60

90

120

Dislike it Like It Don't no/No Opinon Neutral

Question 6:As a goal of the redesign, both concepts look to re-use existing materials as well as well as integrate new materials into the Square.

What do you think of the use materials proposed for concept 2?

Other suggestions offered by 41% of respondents include:

• That reusing the cobble and brick is not high priority.

• That the walls/facades around the Square should be animated; suggestions ofglass, art, murals etc.

85% 88%

71%80% 74%

36%

Respondents show similar support for materials identified in both Concept 1 and Concept 2.

Results:


Re-use of redbrick pavers

Re-use of granite cobble

Re-use of granite slabs from planters

Timber decking

Weatherediron bands

Concrete



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7.


0

10

20

30

40


Question 7What is your overall opinion of concept 2 - Multi-level Square?

Other suggestions offered by 41% of respondents include:

• Retain more of the unique character of the space

• That there should be rain cover.

• That there should be a public washroom.

• That the design provides too many opportunities for skateboarding.

34%

39%

14%

3%

10%

73% of respondents like Concept 2 - Multi-Level Square.

Results:




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Question 1Both concepts propose raising the lane on Trounce Alley along the length of the Square to slow traffic. This creates an opportunity to use Trounce Alley together with Blood Alley Square for special events.

What do you think of this element as part of the design?Both concept 1 and 2 - elevated plaza


0

12.5

25

37.5

50


47%

35%

12%

3%3%

82% of people indicated that this element isfavorable.

Results:

BOTH CONCEPTS



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Question 1There are nine (9) trees; four (4) are in poor health. Although every effort will be made to protect the health of the trees, the locust trees may need to be removed because they will not survive through construction and other associated impacts (root compaction, soil disruption and increased shade).If the trees are removed how should the space where the trees are located be used?

How to use tree space


0

15

30

45

60

Other suggestions offered by respondents include:

• Not to remove trees at all

• Replace with same number of trees

• Replace with an evergreen tree species

• Incorporate a large table as well as seating.

• Use space as a stage, restaurant patio, or just open space.

59%

6%

14%

7%

14%

Most respondents would like to see the space replaced with a single tree with significant canopy

Results:

TREE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

Replace with a single tree with significant canopy

Additional seating

Public art Use the space for something else

No preference



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Question 1Solid Waste Management principles have been developed to guide redesign on the site in this area. Referring to the Solid Waste Management principles on Board 13, tell us what principles are most important to you. Please select your top 3.

Solid waste 1


0

17.5

35

52.5

70

50%

65%

16%

39%

19%

The top 3 principles most important to respondants are:

• Create a cleaner and safer waste disposalsystem

• Reduce collection truck traffic to prioritzepedestrians

• Elimanate waste containers

Results:

SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT STRATEGY

45%

66%

Elimanate waste containers

Reduce collection truck traffic to prioritize pedestrians

Create a cleaner and safer waste disposal system

Provide shared spaces for loading

Apply a phased system to convert from current to new system

Find a cost effective and financially sustainable sytem for all users

Align with DTES plan for local employment opportunities



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Question 2What strategies should be explored further for solid waste management on the site?

Solid Waste 2


0

12.5

25

37.5

50

Other suggestions offered by respondents include:

• Integrate public waste receptables in to the Square

• Include sharps collection boxes.

50%

44%

6%

Results:


Flexible “Just in Time” with multiple pick-ups daily

On-site facility such as underground storage containers

Other



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Question 3Do you have other suggestions not seen here for Solid Waste Management strategies?

• The Solid Waste Management Strategy should integrate all of the community’sneeds.

• Pedestrian activities should be prioritized.

• Local employment opportunties are important.

• Case Study 1 is more suitable to the neighbourhood for both waste andemployment.

• Case Study 2 will impede on the quality of urban space in the Square.

• Case Study 2 could be more attractive than dumpsters.

• Consider an on-site recycle/re-use program.

Results:




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The following are some examples of respondents’ general comments about the redesign:

“Garbage/waste should be handledby one supplier/

contractor.”

“It looks a bit bland. It's a hidden spot that people don't necessarily stumble upon, so it would need to have a lot of good programming to create a draw.” (Concept 1)

“Don't turn Gastown into

Yaletown please. The historic

aspect is what makes Gastown

special & unique”

“It feels like the concept (1) is

retaining some of the

awkward geometry for the

sake of heritage when I have

to question if it really has

heritage value. Reusing

materials or using new

materials that are in the same

palette may makes sense from

a heritage point of view.”

“I would like to seea design that could interpret the

history of the alley while still paying homage to the 60s/70s

beautification treatment.”

...many 'binners' in this area.

Why not make suitable bike trailers

available to them and pay them to

transport solid waste to a central

collection point nearby?“Would like to

see more green in the space, more

trees, plants, green walls and more space for art...”

(Concept 1)

“I like how seating is

integrated with the

different levels of

the plaza. It also

makes it more

visually interesting.”

(Concept 2)

One thing I love aboutBlood Alley (scuzzy as it is)is that it feels intimate andout of the way, like you havedecided to go undergroundfor a bit from all the trafficand overwhelmingstimulation of other streets.”

“Raised levels

provides good

opportunities for

people-watching and

activation.”

(Concept 2)

“I like that it

is not a

parking lot.”

“SO HAPPY not

to see Public art

taking up space in

the square!!!”



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DemographicsWhat is your connection to Gastown?Demographics

1.

1. Rent in the neighbourhood

2. Own a home and live in the neighbourhood

3. Own a home in the neighbourhood but live elsewhere

4. Work in the neighbourhood

5. Own a business in the neighbourhood

6. Frequent the neighbourhood for restaurants and entertainment

7. Live outside the neighbourhood

8. Other

2. Which age group do you fall into?

19 or under 20-39 40-59 60-79 80+

1% 50% 41% 8% 0%


0

17.5

35

52.5

70

15%19%

2%

26%

7%

61%

39%

10%

1. Rent in the neighbourhood

2. Own a home and live in the neighbourhood

3. Own a home in the neighbourhood but live elsewhere

4. Work in the neighbourhood

5. Own a business in the neighbourhood

6. Frequent the neighbourhood for restaurants and entertainment

7. Live outside the neighbourhood

8. Other

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Results:



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2. Which age group do you fall into?

19 or under 20-39 40-59 60-79 80+

1% 50% 41% 8% 0%


0

12.5

25

37.5

50

19 or under 20-39 40-59 60-79 80+

DemographicsWhich age group do you fall under?

1%

50%

41%

8%

0%

Results:

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