Festival Plaza

“Festival Plaza is a long awaited venue that came with high expectations for the final product. EDS Group conducted a remarkable public engagement process to create a vibrant public plaza and gathering space that encapsulates the spirit of the community.

Throughout the engagement process, EDS Group actively sought input from diverse community organizations, as well as the community at large, ensuring that the voices of local residents and user groups resonated in the final design. Numerous in person engagement opportunities were provided, both group events and one on one meetings to ensure that all voices were heard and was conducted in a fashion that fully addressed all ideas and concerns. Significant time was spent with City staff to understand operational and maintenance concerns to ensure the future success of the space.

A significant emphasis was placed on incorporating local art and Indigenous components to create a space of beauty with a sense of belonging for everyone. EDS Group assisted the City in conducting a very successful art call that resulted in wonderful examples of public art that continues to be celebrated. Incorporating local Indigenous cultural was done thoughtfully, stemming from early engagement with a passionate representative from the local First Nation community. The resulting plaza is more than just a physical space; it serves as a dynamic venue that celebrates community bonds and creates lasting memories for all who gather there.”

– Jennifer Decker, City of Fort St. John