Where are we really at with the Civic Core District Plan?

You may have seen or read a number of differing things about the City’s Civic Core District Plan, so let’s clarify exactly what has happened to far, and what comes next.

What has happened so far:

• In 2023, the City conducted extensive public engagement, including roundtable sessions with key user groups including members of the arts and sports communities, pop-up events at local events and markets, and an online survey that garnered over 1,000 responses. The top three facilities identified by respondents were:
  
  1. Shops and cafes with housing (51.84%)
  2. Performing arts centre (43.41%)
  3. Ice arena (29.46%)
• On December 18, 2023, Council directed Administration to procure consultant services to prepare conceptual options and site designs for the Civic Core District Plan area, incorporating community consultation results and previously identified priorities, including arts, culture, and arena uses. 
• On December 16, 2024, based on the public feedback, staff prepared two conceptual plan options to present to Council, both featuring mixed-use residential developments, a performing arts centre, and an ice arena. A third proposal was introduced by Mayor Simon Yu, emphasizing an expanded convention centre and additional amenities. 
• At the December 16, 2024 meeting, Council selected one of the staff-prepared conceptual plans to proceed with, aiming to balance community desires with fiscal responsibility. None of the details such as how many seats in the proposed facilities, or the exact size and scope of each building or parking, have been determined at this stage. 
• For 2023 and 2024 it is estimated that about $55,000 has been spent on this project in total. 

What comes next:

• Technical studies and site planning: Administration will now proceed with technical studies (including parking!) and site planning to ensure the City is well-positioned for future development opportunities. 
• Future public engagement: The City acknowledges the importance of inclusive consultation and is committed to engaging with all interested parties to address their feedback as much as possible - opportunities for engagement will be considered in the next steps. 
• Detailed plan presentation: Staff will return to Council in 2025 with more details on the plan, including specifics of each facility, economic analysis, timelines, and financial information. 

The Civic Core District Plan is a long-term, phased initiative aimed at enhancing the vibrancy of downtown Prince George, strengthening the local economy, and providing amenities to improve the quality of life for all residents. Community input remains a cornerstone of this project, and the City encourages residents to stay engaged as we move forward.

For more information and updates, please visit the CCDP official website.