The Chinatown Memorial Square redesign project is continuing as the city released three design concepts for the public space at Columbia and Keefer streets.
As one piece of the plan to create a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Chinatown, the memorial redesign aims to improve the site, which was originally created in 1995.
The site is currently home to the , dedicated to Chinese Canadians who helped build Canada and fought in wars.
"This project is an important part of Chinatown's living heritage," reads a City of 麻豆传媒映画webpage about the site redesign.
"We are working with the community, stakeholders, and people from across 麻豆传媒映画to improve Chinatown Memorial Square as an accessible public space while developing a design that enhances its culture and history."
Three designs for one place
Over the last several years, the city has collected input from a variety of stakeholders.
Now they've created three designs for the site, based on that input. Each design factors in new trees, seating, and special features, but there are notable differences.
One is called "Healing Plants," inspired by the herbal medicine shops found in Vancouver's Chinatown. It would include specific trees, healing plant designs, and new lighting and tables.
"Herbal medicine shops foster healing, strengthen social bonds and enrich Chinatown’s cultural heritage," about the design.
The second idea is called "Three Friends in the Winter," a reference to pine, bamboo, and plum.
"They represent resilience, longevity, hope, and courage," reads the report.
Each of the plants would feature in the redesigned square. Three seating islands would be created as well.
The final concept proposed is called "Fire Dragon."
"The curved form of the dragon could become a dynamic yellow-colour ground paving band. It could rise in some areas and be transformed into seating," reads the report.
Dragon scale paving patterns could be added as well.
Survey open
The city is now looking for input from the public.
A until April 30 for people to share their thoughts on the designs.
