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 in-person session will take place on October 2nd from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m on the second floor of the Capitol Centre ('Spotlight Lounge'). There will also be a kiosk/booth at the North Bay Farmers' Market on Saturday October 4th between 9:00 a.m and 1:30 p.m.

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.

Downtown Waterfront Project – Sept. 9 Virtual Session Recording