Barb Scott Park officially opens for Calgarians to enjoy
Calgary AB – Calgary’s newest park, Barb Scott Park, officially opened today with a ribbon cutting ceremony. Mayor Naheed Nenshi, Ward 8 Councillor Evan Woolley and members of the Beltline Communities were on hand to honour Barb Scott and her legacy.
“Today is a special moment for me,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “I had the good fortune to know Barb during the past few years of her life. Through her commitment to this community, Calgary and Canada, she is an inspiration for anyone who strives to make a positive difference for their fellow citizens.”
When Barb Scott learned that Council had named the park after her she said, “Achievements are only possible when many people work together toward a common aim. While this park bears my name alone, it will live on long after I am gone; I share this honour with the residents and Council colleagues who continue to work hard on behalf of a community we care so much about.” Her quote is included on a plaque in the park.
Located at 12 Avenue and 9 Street S.W., Barb Scott Park is 0.42 hectares and adds green space to the Beltline which has relatively little park space compared to other communities in Calgary.
“Barb Scott Park is a wonderful addition to the Beltline. This new public space is meaningful to the community. The park will add to the vitality of the Beltline and help define the community’s distinct identity,” says Beltline Communities President Rob Taylor.
The park features an interactive sculpture, Chinook Arc, which was conceptualized and produced by artist team Creative Machines.
“Landmarks like Chinook Arc are important to Calgary, because they enhance our experience of a place and our quality of life. They bring about a sense of pride and community identity, and they add to the beauty of everyday life,” says Councillor Evan Woolley. “Chinook Arc provides interest for people commuting down 12 Avenue and serves as a beacon of light for this highly visible location.”
Barb Scott Park was formally the school yard of Carl Safran School (now the Calgary Board of Education head office) located adjacent to the park. The space became a park after extensive community consultation. Construction began in August 2012.
A community celebration and official unveiling of Chinook Arc is scheduled for this evening from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the park. Calgarians are invited to hear from the artists and enjoy live music along with other activities including a pedal powered dj booth and projector, a penny-farthing bicycle course and lantern parade.
For more information on Barb Scott Park and other work being done by The City of Calgary Parks visit Calgary.ca/Parks.