Jack Downing Park Revitalization

The ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the revitalization of Jack Downing Park was held on Wednesday November 2, 2022. 

Jack Downing Park Revitalization

The revitalization would not have been possible without the generous support of Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

Through community consultations, (The CIP which recognized Jack Downing Park as BIG MOVE #8 - Redesign Jack Downing Park to become the community’s ‘living room’, and the May 5, 2022, Jack Downing Park Revitalization Survey), the redesigned park addresses the need improve the accessibility and provide a space that will positively impact the downtown core and provide an important economic driver.

The revitalization project aligns with Council’s Strategic Priorities:

3 Goals:

Sustainable, Engaged and Livable

T10 Improve and enhance parks and recreation services

T11 Improve community connections

T12 Support and celebrate arts and culture

New Design

Key Accessibility Features of The Park

• Accessible ground surface that is level, firm and stable so that canes, crutches, or the wheels of mobility devices will not sink into it
• Open space, for scooters and wheelchairs, located beside benches which removes the need to transfer to seating
• Benches with full back support and armrests to assist in sitting and standing – this especially useful for seniors
• Open space allows for easily accessible access while in the park
• Accessible Gazebo
• Textured and coloured concrete for the visually impaired
• Sensory Garden including the musical instrument

Benefits Sensory Garden:

• Sensory Development
• Calming
• Encourages explorative and discovery skills
• Communication and language skills are promoted
• Allows children to engage with the environment
• Promotes the characteristics of effective learning
• Supports cognitive development
• Promotes bodily awareness

Ecology and Fiscal Responsibility 

Maintaining the Tree canopy

The design was carefully considered to ensure there was minimal impact on the existing trees within the park. The trees were not adversely affected and only one tree was removed.

Reuse and relocation of plants

Removal of the perennial plants, for reuse or relocation to other parks within the community. It was not possible to save all the plants, especially the coniferous shrubs i.e., yew, located near or around the mature trees, without damaging or traumatizing the root system of the trees.

Sustainability

The barrier free concrete benches which will be installed in 2023 have seating that is constructed from a product that has zero waste and is 100% recyclable. Made from upcycled rice hulls, it is a natural wonder of water-resistant strength and durability. Additionally, the seating material is 100% Tree-free, Free of phenol, formaldehyde, and adhesives, resists water, weather, and pests, guaranteed not to rot, crack, or splinter.

Community Engagement 

Community Improvement Plan (CIP) 2018- 2019

The CIP provides a strategy to articulate a vision for the downtown and surrounding areas, to attract more people and businesses to Shelburne. In the CIP Report, Jack Downing Park is recognized as a potential extension of Grace Tipling Concert Hall and an economic driver for the Downtown core.

Have Your Say Shelburne: Jack Downing Park Revitalization Survey 2022

We asked for your input to help improve the park’s accessibility, inclusiveness, sustainability to create a renewed vision of Jack Downing Park. 

Background

History

Jack Downing Park is a 5,735 square foot public park, located in the Downtown core on land between Main St. E. and William Streets, across the from Town Hall and the Grace Tipling Hall.

The space has been a public park since 2001, prior to the space becoming a park, the lands were once a former gas station and vacant property.

A Community Park

Jack Downing Park is named after John Robert “Jack” Downing. Jack Downing was born in 1920 and passed away on January 17, 2014, at the age of 93. Jack advocated that the Town purchase the vacant land in 1998.  He raised approximately $34,000 to purchase the land and raised an additional $52,900 for the park development which included receiving several grants.

Many volunteers also donated their time and labour to the project. The park was officially opened in June 2000 and marked its 20th year anniversary in 2020.

June 2014 the statue of William Jelly (Founding Father of Shelburne) was installed to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Shelburne. The honorable Lt. Gov. David Onley attended the ceremony.

The wooden statue of William Jelly was removed due to deterioration and safety issues. The statue will be repaired and once completed it will be installed in the park.

Goals and Outcomes

Future of the Park – About the Revitalization

Over the last few years, the Town of Shelburne has been working closely with the local community to plan the revitalization of the well-used and well-worn park. The 2019 Community Improvement Plan (CIP) which was developed through extensive Community engagement, recognizes the importance of Jack Downing Park in BIG MOVE #8 - Redesign Jack Downing Park to become the community’s ‘living room’.  A draft park design concept was created as part of the CIP project for Jack Downing Park. That concept design included incorporating part of the William Street parking lot as new park space, which would allow the park to expand northward for events.

Upgrades to this small area will enhance the parks use, appearance and vibrancy of the downtown.

Council’s commitment to the revitalization of the park is outlined in Council’s Strategic Priorities 3 Goals - Sustainable, Engaged and Livable.

T10 Improve and enhance parks and recreation services

T11 Improve community connections

T12 Support and celebrate arts and culture

Reports

CAO 2021-04 regarding Jack Downing Park Project
Planning P2021-38 Parks and Recreation Master Plan – Work Plan Overview