The intent was to modify the existing entrance to Heritage Park and create a new "Sense of Arrival". The existing entrance was located such that patrons were required to hike up a hill to the entrance and then hike back down to the park. The revision will create a gentle walkway up to the park. The new entrance will also allow for dining and shopping after park hours, thereby increasing revenue for the park.
The initial schedule proposed was impacted by several conditions including special events, movie shoots, and weather. Each of these was coordinated with the Park Managers to accommodate their requirements and with the Contractor to explore and implement various construction methods to minimize negative impacts on the schedule.
The regional bike path system has also been integrated into the arrivals sequence with a new secure dedicated bicycle parking area immediately across from the historic courtyard. Each "parking room" is devoid of curbs, is landscaped with native natural plants, is shielded by a 3 meter high heavily treed berm to the north, which is gently graded to collect all surface run off in support of the constructed wetland. The existing outfall was retained and used to service the green redesigned area.
Visitors arriving on foot can wander through the wetlands on a path system connected to the pedestrian boulevard, or along the north Glenmore Reservoir regional path system, both of which lead to the arrivals plaza. All of the buildings oriented to the plaza may be entered and utilized by the public without entering into the pay zone of the park. These provide historic shopping, interpretive displays and two different restaurants, all of which will allow Heritage Park's unique vitality and activity to connect on a year around basis with modern day Calgary.
