Downtown River Precinct

The Downtown River Precinct is a multi-phase initiative to reconnect Owen Sound’s downtown with the Sydenham River through public realm improvements, enhanced connectivity, and placemaking. Following the completion of the 1st Avenue East Class EA, Envision-Tatham was retained to refine the precinct vision in the context of earlier planning efforts and the Harbour and Downtown Urban Design/Master Plan.

Phase 1, completed in 2019, reimagined the riverside urban block surrounding City Hall and the historic Farmers’ Market. With the realignment of 1st Avenue E., a flexible urban square was introduced to support the market, community events, and off-hour parking. Percy England Lane was extended to the river, creating a pedestrian corridor between Owen Sound’s main street and the waterfront. A shaded public gathering space was also created as a venue for informal use and public art.

Phase 2 revitalizes a section of 1st Avenue E., between 9th Street E. and 10th Street E. Through a unique partnership with private landowners, a public boardwalk has been introduced along the Sydenham River, opening new access to the downtown waterfront. The laneway has been transformed into a shared-use space with decorative paving to support public events and daily use, while enabling adjacent building owners to activate their river-facing façades with patios, retail access, and event spaces. Illuminated gateway columns mark the transition to the harbourfront.

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