Confluence unveils 20-year transformation plan for 42-acre downtown park

The Confluence Historic Site and Parkland unveiled an ambitious 20-year plan Wednesday to transform the 42-acre green space where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet—the birthplace of modern Calgary.

The concept plan, developed by O2 Planning and Design in collaboration with the Hatlie Group and Reimagine Architects, envisions new pathways, public gardens, a permanent Indian Residential School memorial, and a host of other amenities surrounding the existing cultural centre.

Jen Thompson, president of The Confluence, said the parkland represents Calgary's second-largest public park in the core, behind only Prince's Island Park at just under 50 acres. Last year the site attracted 135,000 visitors and generated over $4 million in operational revenue.

New outdoor amenities would include an entry plaza, a powwow arbour, a gathering space where the two rivers meet, and a covered 5,000-seat amphitheatre with enough lawn capacity for an additional 13,000 people.

The plan also accounts for Calgary's winters. Thompson highlighted plans for an outdoor skating rink and expanded winter activities to make the site a true year-round destination.

"Our site plan took all those things into account, and I think we've delivered the best plan we can have," Thompson said.

The concept plan is described as a "visionary document." In the coming months, The Confluence will establish a phasing plan with high-level budget information. Thompson said the organization is already working actively with partners on several components, including an NHL-size hockey rink, gardens, and roadways and pathways, utilizing current operations to activate the space.

When complete, the site aims to become one of Calgary's top visitor destinations and a gathering place for the entire city.