We know Thunder Bay loves its waterfront – the proof is in the results of our Readers’ Survey in which Prince Arthur’s Landing and Marina Park are sprinkled throughout categories ranging from best public art to best view of the Sleeping Giant. The park has received several design awards from architecture, landscape architecture and urban design industries, including the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada, the Canadian Urban Institute, the Waterfront Center (D.C.), the International Downtown Association, and the Ontario Association of Landscape Architects, among others. It is where we go to relax, reflect, play, and be inspired. It is a place we are proud to share with visiting friends and family.

This month, Prince Arthur’s Landing is among a list of 16 places competing for the national title of Great Public Space for 2015.

Prince Arthur's Landing

The Great Places in Canada competition was created by the Canadian Institute of Planners to engage Canadians in sharing their favourite places, to celebrate and share those places which make one’s community unique, and to recognize the vital work of our country’s professional planners.  Each nominated place is showcased on the 2015 nominations page where residents can vote for their favourite.

The honour of “Great Place” is awarded by a jury of professional planners based on a variety of planning merits under several category. Winners will receive a plaque to commemorate the place’s new designation (in addition to bragging rights!).

“The contest outlines that a planned public space is successful when it invites people to visit and socialize in a safe and attractive environment,” said Leslie McEachern, director of Planning Services for the City of Thunder Bay. “It’s a community hub, an individual place with a distinct character and provides the capacity for a variety of activities, both organized and un-planned – all of the wonderful traits that Prince Arthur’s Landing has.”

Participation in the contest is free, and residents are encouraged to vote as often as possible. Voting closes September 24.

Click here to vote.

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