General Updates and News

[OldDartmouthMark]

Originally Posted by worldlyhaligonian

While I would like to see this, I think that if gas prices stay low... people will continue to drive their SUVs to the nearby biz parks (close to their rural/suburban homes).

Its going to take a big cultural shift... which will happen over time. We have to realize that most of the areas beyond the cores of Halifax, Bedford and Dartmouth are populated by those who are not big fans of urban environments (may actually fear them, i.e. false beliefs about crime) and are oftentimes from other parts of the province or maritimes.

I should qualify my remark. I don't think downtown urban shopping will (or necessarily should) replace big box suburban shopping, as I think there is a place for both (think: Ikea). Also, given the perception of downtown traffic congestion and lack of parking, people in the suburbs will likely not come downtown to shop, unless there is a unique experience there.

However, in my perfect world, there would be less of those big box suburban stores, supplanted by smaller format downtown stores to service downtown, urban residents. The downtown residential experience should be that you never have to leave the downtown unless you have a need to buy something only carried by warehouse/box stores (i.e. Ikea).

My personal dislike for large format box stores will have little to do with how the actual market works, but I do think that they can live symbiotically with smaller-format stores in the downtown.

And, FWIW, research that I've read suggests that higher gas prices is not a major factor in the amount that people choose to drive, so I wouldn't rely on that as a factor.

I've likely made that clear as mud...

[worldlyhaligonian]

Originally Posted by OldDartmouthMark

I should qualify my remark. I don't think downtown urban shopping will (or necessarily should) replace big box suburban shopping, as I think there is a place for both (think: Ikea). Also, given the perception of downtown traffic congestion and lack of parking, people in the suburbs will likely not come downtown to shop, unless there is a unique experience there.

However, in my perfect world, there would be less of those big box suburban stores, supplanted by smaller format downtown stores to service downtown, urban residents. The downtown residential experience should be that you never have to leave the downtown unless you have a need to buy something only carried by warehouse/box stores (i.e. Ikea).

My personal dislike for large format box stores will have little to do with how the actual market works, but I do think that they can live symbiotically with smaller-format stores in the downtown.

And, FWIW, research that I've read suggests that higher gas prices is not a major factor in the amount that people choose to drive, so I wouldn't rely on that as a factor.

I've likely made that clear as mud...

Lol, I agree! Maybe the question is how we can get people out of cars... a decent LRT system would help. Also, there should be more disincentives to live far from the core.

[counterfactual]

Originally Posted by worldlyhaligonian

While I would like to see this, I think that if gas prices stay low... people will continue to drive their SUVs to the nearby biz parks (close to their rural/suburban homes).

Its going to take a big cultural shift... which will happen over time. We have to realize that most of the areas beyond the cores of Halifax, Bedford and Dartmouth are populated by those who are not big fans of urban environments (may actually fear them, i.e. false beliefs about crime) and are oftentimes from other parts of the province or maritimes.

I think this is probably right, but I think if convenience or lack of hassle is what is driving consumer preference here for big box, why would people pack up their kids into SUVs, pay the gas (even if cheaper than it could be), if you could get all you need in big box from the comfort of your home? You could be spending quality time with kids after making the order?

I don't think Amazon will absolutely kill all big box, but it will significantly reduce the number and scope of these parks, I believe.

It's already happening, actually.

[counterfactual]

Originally Posted by OldDartmouthMark

I should qualify my remark. I don't think downtown urban shopping will (or necessarily should) replace big box suburban shopping, as I think there is a place for both (think: Ikea). Also, given the perception of downtown traffic congestion and lack of parking, people in the suburbs will likely not come downtown to shop, unless there is a unique experience there.

However, in my perfect world, there would be less of those big box suburban stores, supplanted by smaller format downtown stores to service downtown, urban residents. The downtown residential experience should be that you never have to leave the downtown unless you have a need to buy something only carried by warehouse/box stores (i.e. Ikea).

My personal dislike for large format box stores will have little to do with how the actual market works, but I do think that they can live symbiotically with smaller-format stores in the downtown.

And, FWIW, research that I've read suggests that higher gas prices is not a major factor in the amount that people choose to drive, so I wouldn't rely on that as a factor.

I've likely made that clear as mud...

Seems entirely clear to me.

I think Amazon/online retailers will help us get to where you envision... as per above, I think Amazon won't fully kill off big box, but will significantly reduce.

[Drybrain]

It looks like Phil Pacey got his tour of the Dennis. Pacey doesn't have much cred around here, I know, but he took along a local architect, David Garrett, who's done loads of local heritage-restoration work, include the Freemason's Hall, Espace, and currently the NFB site.

Basically, Garrett said that the building appears quite solid--one of the first steel-reinforced concrete buildings in the province, it was definitely built to last. The ceilings (after drop ceiling are removed) are nearly 11 feet high, and he's encouraging the province not to make any rushed decisions--which also implies that he believes the facade is not unfixable.

Frankly, I find a heritage architect's considered opinion more meaningful than the province's "it's beyond saving" rhetoric.

[OldDartmouthMark]

Originally Posted by Drybrain

It looks like Phil Pacey got his tour of the Dennis. Pacey doesn't have much cred around here, I know, but he took along a local architect, David Garrett, who's done loads of local heritage-restoration work, include the Freemason's Hall, Espace, and currently the NFB site.

Basically, Garrett said that the building appears quite solid--one of the first steel-reinforced concrete buildings in the province, it was definitely built to last. The ceilings (after drop ceiling are removed) are nearly 11 feet high, and he's encouraging the province not to make any rushed decisions--which also implies that he believes the facade is not unfixable.

Frankly, I find a heritage architect's considered opinion more meaningful than the province's "it's beyond saving" rhetoric.

That sounds encouraging. Thanks for the report!

[ILoveHalifax]

Let's get the dozers in there before Pacey starts petitioning for Save the Dennis

[OldDartmouthMark]

Originally Posted by ILoveHalifax

Let's get the dozers in there before Pacey starts petitioning for Save the Dennis

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHkvD7-u7y8

[Keith P.]

Originally Posted by Drybrain

Frankly, I find a heritage architect's considered opinion more meaningful than the province's "it's beyond saving" rhetoric.

Didn't other architects declare it beyond saving?

[Drybrain]

Originally Posted by Keith P.

Didn't other architects declare it beyond saving?

No, a report commissioned by the government (possibly directed by said government to arrive at a that conclusion) recommended demolition, but didn't declare it beyond saving. The only person who's said that is Minister Kousoulis, who seems to maybe be softening on the issue as it becomes clear how strongly people feel about it.

[ILoveHalifax]

Look, if Pacey can find an architect to say the building is wonderful then all other opinions really don't matter, cause Pacey has never brought in biased experts before.

[Drybrain]

Originally Posted by ILoveHalifax

Look, if Pacey can find an architect to say the building is wonderful then all other opinions really don't matter, cause Pacey has never brought in biased experts before.

We're talking about David Garrett--he's a jury member for the Lt. Governor's Award for Architecture. He's been employed by Starfish, among many other developers and property owners, and has recently worked on Espace, the NFB restoration, and the Freemason's Hall, among many others. There's hardly a more credible voice on these matters to be found in the province.

[Colin May]

Originally Posted by ILoveHalifax

Look, if Pacey can find an architect to say the building is wonderful then all other opinions really don't matter, cause Pacey has never brought in biased experts before.

My local P-9 school has been under threat of closure for over 25 years and the most recent threat had a staff and consultant appraisal of what is now a almost 60 year old building. The conclusion : close it - too costly to upgrade, blah,blah, blah.
A few years after that appraisal a new idea emerged : kick out the elementary kids and scatter them to 3 other schools, remodel and upgrade the building and bus in French Immersion kids and turn the school into a Jr High.
I had kept the documents from the original review of the building as well as subsequent documents, and I privately asked the maintenance boss at the end of a board meeting to reconcile the 'Tear it down' document with the new "Repair and upgrade' document and he said 'You know the game Colin, you've been through several of these exercises'.
HRM is a small town and no consultant will write a report that does not fit with the prevailing political attitude, unless he/she is planning on never getting another provincial or municipal contract.
The culture of denial is alive and well, it's all part of the boosterism movement.
If the province wants to tear down the Dennis building there are plenty of consultants who will write the supportive report.
If you want an honest appraisal just ask 3 outside non-national firms to prepare seperate reports.

[counterfactual]

NS Archives posted this photo on twitter today.

https://twitter.com/NS_Archives/status/577603321185185792

Anyone have any idea about these arches? Were they temporary? Or permanent? And if so, why the heck they're now gone? Look really unique.




Caption: Masonic Arch over Barrington St, #Halifax, celebrating the visit of the Prince of Wales http://bit.ly/1bbtMvx 1860

The Masonic Arch was one of many arches which spanned Halifax streets to celebrate the visit of H.R.M. the Prince of Wales to Halifax in 1860. The Masonic Arch is in front of Free Masons Hall, Barrington Street. (Hon. Alexander Keith, wearing a top hat, stands under the arch, and the spire of St. Matthew’s Church is faintly seen in the distance.) Masons Hall was the gathering point and meeting place for the Charitable Irish Society. A sketch of the Hall, showing the front facade just prior to being demolished, appeared in The Morning Chronicle, 14 October 1903, p. 3. The accompanying news story mentioned Free Masons Hall was the headquarters of the Irish Society as well as all the National Societies in earlier years. The Masons only occupied part of the main floor; the building was also used for hotel purposes and noted, "many brilliant balls and dinners" were held there.

[someone123]

It used to be pretty common to construct ceremonial arches over streets. I think they were mostly designed to be temporary though, and probably wouldn't have lasted very long.

Halifax did have a series of real archways around the waterfront, including at least one stone one around what is now Historic Properties (I've seen sketches of it but no photos). Here's one example:


https://www.facebook.com/VintageHalifax/photos_stream

I think it would be nice if there were some small-scale infill on some of the waterfront lots that attempted to faithfully recreate some of these old buildings. The law courts and old ferry terminal would be one spot for this; basically it would be an extension of Historic Properties, ideally with a residential component.

[ILoveHalifax]

Irving had an arch at the foot of Sackville St leading to their offices. That is the only one I remember. It was there in the 50s.

[OldDartmouthMark]

Originally Posted by counterfactual

NS Archives posted this photo on twitter today.

https://twitter.com/NS_Archives/status/577603321185185792

Anyone have any idea about these arches? Were they temporary? Or permanent? And if so, why the heck they're now gone? Look really unique.




Caption: Masonic Arch over Barrington St, #Halifax, celebrating the visit of the Prince of Wales http://bit.ly/1bbtMvx 1860

The Masonic Arch was one of many arches which spanned Halifax streets to celebrate the visit of H.R.M. the Prince of Wales to Halifax in 1860. The Masonic Arch is in front of Free Masons Hall, Barrington Street. (Hon. Alexander Keith, wearing a top hat, stands under the arch, and the spire of St. Matthew’s Church is faintly seen in the distance.) Masons Hall was the gathering point and meeting place for the Charitable Irish Society. A sketch of the Hall, showing the front facade just prior to being demolished, appeared in The Morning Chronicle, 14 October 1903, p. 3. The accompanying news story mentioned Free Masons Hall was the headquarters of the Irish Society as well as all the National Societies in earlier years. The Masons only occupied part of the main floor; the building was also used for hotel purposes and noted, "many brilliant balls and dinners" were held there.

It looks like some version of a triumphal arch, of which there have been a few in Halifax. I don't know much about them, but I believe they were built as temporary structures for some type of celebration, usually celebrating the military's return after a victory. Here's one example:

http://www.halifax.ca/archives/BoerWarTriumphalArch.php

Boer War Triumphal Arch 1901

Plan of Dumaresq Triumphal Arch City of Halifax Plan # P-11-1427
City of Halifax Engineering and Works Plan # P-11-1427 Nov. 8, 1901

In the summer of 1902, Canadian Boer War volunteers returned to Canada through the port of Halifax after successfully aiding the British in the Boer defeat. The crowds that cheered on the volunteers' departure in 1899 celebrated the return of the first Canadian Contingent in 1901 with parades and concerts. The return of the remaining regiments at the war’s end was equally impressive: Halifax organized street celebrations, a parade and a triumphal arch in honour of the volunteer’s military successes, such as the battle of Paardeberg in 1900.

The displayed image is likely from an unsuccessful bid for the triumphal arch design -- either for celebrations in 1901 or in 1902. The plan is from prolific Halifax architectural firm, J.C. Dumaresq & Son. Received by the City Engineer 's Office on November 8th, 1901, this plan was one of several submitted by city architects, including Hebert E. Gates.

The Dumaresq plan was completed on linen and was painted to enhance the drawing’s effect. It is one of more than 30,000 plans from the City of Halifax Engineer's Office held at the Municipal Archives.

More information on the victory celebrations can be found in the minutes of The Special Committee on the Reception and Entertainment for the Second Canadian Contingent and the Committee for the Reception of the Second Contingent of Canadian Volunteers for Service in South Africa, [HRM Archives 102-1G].

See also the book Fortress Halifax: Portrait of a Garrison Town (2004) by Mike Parker. Nova Scotia Archives displays an image of the victory parade in their exhibit from the Notman Studio.


HRM Archives gratefully acknowledges financial support of the Government of Canada through Library and Archives Canada, and from Nova Scotia's Tourism, Culture and Heritage Provincial Archival Development Program, through Nova Scotia Archives.


Search the
Archives Database:

[OldDartmouthMark]

There were a few more arches in the city as well:

http://novascotia.ca/archives/virtual/EastCoastPort/archives.asp?ID=1032

Irving Oil arch visible in this one:
http://novascotia.ca/archives/virtual/EastCoastPort/archives.asp?ID=384

This one's still there:
http://novascotia.ca/archives/virtual/Halifax/archives.asp?ID=74

This one shows two triumphal arches, one on Barrington and one at the entrance to the Grand Parade:
http://novascotia.ca/archives/virtual/Notman/archives.asp?ID=835

A Farewell Arch:
http://gencat1.eloquent-systems.com/webcat/systems/halifax/resource/6000_1038_5006285_1.jpg

[Keith P.]

Originally Posted by OldDartmouthMark

There were a few more arches in the city as well:

Irving Oil arch visible in this one:
http://novascotia.ca/archives/virtual/EastCoastPort/archives.asp?ID=384

There is a virtually identical photo taken from the same spot in 1961 on the Chronicle-Herald shopping site.

I remember the taking down of that Irving building with the arch was quite controversial in the time (late '70s/early '80s). In retrospect it would have been better to preserve at least the arch feature with the view to the water. Instead we ended up with the rather ugly and unimpressive Maritime Museum building, the epitome of low-bid NS government architecture, and the barren parking lot/plaza to its south.

[Ziobrop]

Originally Posted by Keith P.

There is a virtually identical photo taken from the same spot in 1961 on the Chronicle-Herald shopping site.

I remember the taking down of that Irving building with the arch was quite controversial in the time (late '70s/early '80s). In retrospect it would have been better to preserve at least the arch feature with the view to the water. Instead we ended up with the rather ugly and unimpressive Maritime Museum building, the epitome of low-bid NS government architecture, and the barren parking lot/plaza to its south.

What? arn't you against the library for being too extravagant, but now bemoaning the loss of this for the "Cheap" Taxpayer funded Museum? also your bemoaning the loss of something 30 years ago? isnt Summit place much better?

Keith, Are you feeling ok? your starting to sound like the HTNS