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Design of Next Phase of Downtown Waterfront

Project Description

The Downtown Waterfront Master Plan (DWMP), completed in 2017, sets out a clear vision for improving North Bay’s downtown waterfront. As part of this project, design work will focus on the large open space behind the North Bay Museum. The goal is to create a layout that fits well with nearby attractions, including the Family of Rotary Splash Pad and Playground, the North Bay and Dionne Quints Museums, Multi-Use Courts, and the Kiwanis All Wheel Park.

This project builds on many decades of improvements throughout the area. It will add new features that support recreation, tourism, and community activities, helping make the downtown waterfront a more vibrant and welcoming place for everyone.

Public Engagement

The first step in the design process is gathering input from the public through an online survey, which will be followed by additional opportunities for engagement through both in-person and virtual meetings.

Residents are encouraged to complete the survey before Sept. 30. Those who complete the full survey will be entered into a draw to win one of six $100 Hello Cards, redeemable at more than 20 shops and restaurants in Downtown North Bay.

The first virtual session will take place on Sept. 9 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. To join the Sept. 9 virtual session, visit: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81699070956?pwd=chnrQrqG4aOthORfGJ1FYPMtxwtDQt.1 and use Passcode:656170

The project will be completed in the following phases: 

  • Phase 1: Project Initiation and Consultation
  • Phase 2: Conceptual Design 
  • Phase 3: Preliminary and Detail Design
  • Phase 4: Tendering
  • Phase 5: Construction

The City of North Bay awarded Request For Proposal No. 2025-014 – 'Landscape Architecture and Engineering Design for the Remaining Park at Downtown Waterfront Park' to Brook McIlroy. Brook McIlroy is a nationally acclaimed firm specializing in urban design, planning, landscape architecture, architecture, and interior design, with offices in Toronto, Thunder Bay, and Winnipeg. City of North Bay Staff will work alongside Brook McIlroy Staff throughout this project. 

The firm previously led the development of the City's Downtown Waterfront Master Plan (DWMP). This new project is a key component of the DWMP implementation plan and helps to continue advancing the long-term goals and vision of the Downtown Waterfront. 

North Bay Waterfront Master Plan — Brook McIlroy

Engaging stakeholders and the public will be a vital part of the design phase. While specific consultation details are still being finalized, the process will include a combination of online surveys, virtual meetings, and in-person sessions to gather input and inform the final design.

Under construction

Existing Features and Project Area
Project Area
Project Area
Preliminary Concept Image

Timeline

Design Contract Awarded

Contract was awarded to BrookMcilroy, a landscape architecture and urban design firm based in Thunder Bay, Toronto and Winnipeg.

Phase 1: Project Initiation & Consultation

This phase will include public engagement which will help to inform the Conceptual Design Package in Phase 2.

Phase 2: Conceptual Design Package (30%)

Will include 3 conceptual design options and public consultation which will help to inform Design Packages in Phase 3.

Phase 3: Design & Tender Ready Packages

Will include: Preliminary (60%), Detailed (90%) and Construction (100%) Design Packages.

Unveiling of Final Design

To be determined

Key Dates

Tuesday September 09 2025
Virtual Public Engagement

Please use the following link to participate in the virtual engagement session.

Thursday October 02 2025
In-Person Public Engagement

Location ,date and time to be confirmed at a later date

Contacts

Megan Rochefort, P.Eng

Project Manager dwmp@northbay.ca (705) 474-0400 ext. 2301

Beverley Hillier, RPP, MCIP

Manager, Planning & Building Services dwmp@northbay.ca (705) 474-0400 ext. 2403