Bracebridge approves design for new Memorial Park bandshell
Bracebridge General Committee approved the design for a new bandshell at Memorial Park, in the February 6, 2024, meeting.
The conceptual design option chosen is an octagonal concept that “allows for more of a 360-degree viewing experience of anything taking place on the bandshell,” according to the staff report.
The goal for the upgrade is to modernize the bandshell with consideration to maintaining the character of the original structure, and that is fitting with other area features, such as heritage buildings, including a multi-tiered roof and decorative upper railing that will include a circular design reflecting the round window at the library.
According to the report, the park itself dates back to 1900 as a result of a meeting by the Board of Trade “to establish a park commemorating Private Fred Marshall, a local citizen enlisted with the third Victoria Rifles of Montral and “E” Company Royal Canadian Contingent for active service in the Boer War, who died from wounds on February 27, 1900, in Paardeberg, South Africa.”
In 2018 a recommendation was included in the Recreation, Parks, and Trails Master Plan to initiate community participation in the new development process.
The report adds that the 2024 Budget allocated $50,000 for construction of a new bandshell. “The 2024-2033 long-term Capital Plan currently has allocations totalling $384,000 in 2024 and 2025 for park improvements at Memorial Park.”
Councillor, Don Smith, expressed appreciation that the design includes consideration to the heritage of the area. He said, “I think it’s important that we constantly build on the legacy of the community.”
He added, “It’s going to be a nice update to the Memorial Park and will be able to recognize the tradition of the community.”
Mayor, Rick Maloney, concurred about the design maintaining the heritage of the site. He said, “What a great opportunity for this community to mark a legacy project of 150 years of community with this new piece of infrastructure.”
Maloney added, “This community has always shown its interest in preserving its history but also moving forward too by new opportunities to our community.”
He continued that the bandshell is in keeping with accessibility needs of the community, “to recognize that our community is inclusive - our community does recognize that Memorial Park is for everybody.”
Public feedback will be solicited for ongoing design and reconstruction, and staff will report back to the Committee with a more detailed design, cost, and other details for the project.
