A new proposed green space for the downtown core is being put off another year.
In the spring, the city announced its plans for a park behind the Wood Innovation and Design Centre, with construction scheduled for June.
But, as explained in a new report to city council, more time is required to include the suggestions and ideas brought forward during a public open house on April 14.
During that event, 33 participants completed a questionnaire with 70 per cent of respondents expressing support of the park.
Concerns raised included the security of the site, the need for park furnishings, seating, public art and outdoor programming for the space.
The concept design for the WIDC park, put together by the Vancouver-based firm van der Zalm and Associates - who also designed the Canada Games Plaza renovation - allows for main access from Fourth and Fifth Avenues and greenway access from George and Dominion Streets. It will include lighting, furniture and vegetation.
Waiting until next spring to start construction will also give the city time to talk to B.C. Transit about a planned transit hub and potential funding assistance.
Work is currently underway to bury BC Hydro and Telus lines. In April, development services manager Ian Wells told city council that the province had provided $750,000 for the park, much of which was being used for that work.
Another $330,000 in provincial grants is added to the city's contribution of $170,000 from the capital expenditure reserve and $250,000 from development cost charges collected for parkland.
