The historic “four corners” of the 1820s, the financial hub, is a busy Downtown Brampton today. Car-centric, Downtown Brampton thrives on exciting community events, the creative economy and civic pride. Over the last several years, the City’s vision has been to transform the downtown “four corners” from a car-centric intersection to a transit-oriented, pedestrian-friendly downtown, preserved with valuable green spaces and well-connected pathways.

Downtown Reimagined, designed by HDR, aims to create an urban space that will bring together pedestrians, cyclists and motorists in a safe manner. Critical to achieving the above-ground urban design goal, was the revitalization effort beneath the surface where an ageing network of utilities had to be relocated and upgraded to allow for above ground streetscape improvements.

HDR enhanced the relationship between beneath the surface and above ground by creating opportunities to develop a tree line in a series of soil trenches called soil cells that will provide nutrient-rich soil and irrigation, resulting in a lush canopy of trees and creating a sustainable urban environment.

The design accommodated separated cycle lanes and wider sidewalks which will encourage active lifestyles while maintaining safety and accessibility. Other design features include decorative, multi-functional smart poles with Wi-Fi, planter arm, irrigation features and banner arms. Street furniture, public art, culture and heritage features will liven up the Downtown.

The transformation creates a vision for a vibrant urban centre that contributes to Brampton’s economic prosperity, unlocks the potential for mixed-use commercial and residential development and provides new public spaces to interact with the community.

The Downtown Reimagined was a receipt of an Award of Excellence in categories Concept/Plan and Public Education and Marketing at the Brampton Urban Design Awards.