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Pedestrian plaza proposed for downtown Lacombe

Proposal would see part of side street behind Flat Iron Building closed to traffic
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Lacombe’s Downtown Area Redevelopment Program Committee has proposed closing part of a downtown street behind the Flat Iron Building to create a pedestrian plaza. (Graphic contributed)

A proposal to close off a downtown Lacombe street to create a pedestrian-friendly plaza got mixed reviews from city council.

Creating a downtown year-round gathering place has long been a goal of Lacombe’s Downtown Area Redevelopment Committee.

On Monday, committee chair Joe Whitbread presented a concept that would see a portion of 49C Avenue next to the Flat Iron Building closed off to create a plaza with seating and landscaping that could serve as a local gathering place and venue for community events.

Whitbread said the idea is to create a pedestrian-friendly space along the lines of Calgary’s Stephen Avenue Mall. The section of road being considered for the plaza has been the venue for successful community events previously.

“This we believe will help with promotion and growth opportunity. (It would be a) great gathering space, multi-seasonal. There are all kinds of opportunities.”

It also proposed to create a sidewalk bulb in front of the Flat Iron Building to slow traffic and improve pedestrian safety near the plaza.

The design would not reduce parking spaces in the area and would draw more people and activities to the area, including visitors to Lacombe.

Mayor Grant Creasey said while he liked the idea of having a gathering place he was reluctant to see a downtown street permanently closed off to traffic.

“I suspect there will be some significant push-back from businesses there,” said Creasey.

Creasey suggested some sort of “hybrid” concept be developed that would allow traffic to use the street when events are not being held. Creating the sidewalk bulb, which project into an eastbound lane on 5oth Avenue might only add to existing traffic problems, he added.

“I appreciate this is a monumental task to build a suitable area in downtown Lacombe,” he said, adding he does not support the concept as proposed.

Creasey said he would like to see a plan where 49C Avenue could be used for traffic most times, but allowed for the road to be turned into a community space when needed.

Coun. Thalia Hibbs was more supportive of the plaza proposal.

“It highlights the jewel of our downtown, for sure,” she said, adding the plaza would improve a “forgotten street.

“I think something like this proposal could just make that area outstanding and really used.”

Coun. Scott Dallas said he liked what was proposed but wanted to hear from those living and working in the area to get their feedback.

“I think it’s great. We have seen a few events there and it’s been fantastic.”

The curb extension could also help address safety concerns that the city has already been working on, he added.

It is estimated the plaza would cost about $1.25 million.

City chief administrative officer Matthew Goudy said that between funding already approved by council and confirmed grants another $200,000 would need to be found.

“However, there are still grant opportunities being pursued and I think there are ways the city can easily afford what you see here if you see benefit in it.

“It is something that’s achievable for you if you see value in this vision.”

Further design and engineering work and consultation will be done before the project comes back to council for approval.



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