The City of Victoria has started construction in Topaz Park on some new amenities that were approved by Council back in August: skate and bike parks.
In its planning phase, the project went through extensive community engagement — which included input from the skate and bike community — until the final concept designs were decided on and approved.
The final design includes a skatepark with a variety of terrain and features, an asphalt bike pump track designed for a range of skill levels, integrated shared pathways and social spaces, and a sustainable approach to stormwater management.
The new park areas also include integrated artwork by artist Germaine Koh.
Artwork designs include a series of interactive sculptures inspired by native plants that “celebrate energy flows around the site from human movement, natural forces and urban systems,” according to the City of Victoria.
The skate and bike parks are part of an $8 million investment in improving Topaz Park, which also includes the replacement of the artificial turf sports field.
“The start of construction is an exciting step toward bringing these world-class park amenities to this neighbourhood,” said Hillside-Quadra neighbourhood liaison, Councillor Ben Isitt. “Parks like this build healthy communities and this project will deliver an active community hub for the neighbourhood and attract riders of all skill levels throughout the region.”
The public washrooms and parking lot near Topaz Avenue and Blanshard Street are closed for the duration of construction. Public washrooms and parking are available on the east side of the park off Glasgow Street.
The new amenities at Topaz Park are expected to be open for use in summer 2022.
Below are renderings of the final concept design for both the skate and bike parks being added to Topaz, courtesy of the City of Victoria:
Graham Cox
