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National award for plaza design

Refurbished McBurney Square recognized by Canadian Society of Landscape Architects
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A revitalized McBurney Plaza has earned accolades for both the City of Langley and the collaborative that designed the public square.

The gathering space on the Fraser Highway one-way was recognized with a Regional Citation in the design category of the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects’ (CSLA) annual Awards of Excellence in Ottawa on March 9.

Connecting the busy retail area along Fraser Highway to the Douglas Park Spirit Square and cenotaph, the McBurney Plaza redevelopment is a key focus in the public realm portion of the City’s Downtown Master Plan to create a vibrant downtown core and rich pedestrian environment.

“The project focused on strengthening pedestrian connections and creating a flexible, friendly gathering space to accommodate a variety of unique programming and entertainment offerings,” said City of Langley chief administration officer Francis Cheung.

“We also integrated permeable surfaces, drought-tolerant plantings and rainwater infiltration to support the City’s sustainability agenda.”

The open design, created by landscape architecture and urban design practice Hapa Collaborative, includes a series of arching steps that double as seating, a raised middle wood deck, new trees and a tile plaza at the north end of the site.

“We were very pleased to work with the City of Langley to revitalize a space that — as the symbolic and historic centre of Langley — is critical to the success of downtown as a commercial and cultural hub,” said Joseph Fry, principal, Hapa Collaborative.

“The design was developed with input from the public, staff and council with the hope that it catalyzes development and other public realm enhancements in the downtown area.

“We strongly believe that public realm is one of the best investments a city can make. It visually enhances public space, creates a positive environmental benefit and helps build community.”

Winners were selected by a national jury of landscape architects.