New weather-protected public space to be installed on Cleveland Avenue

Downtown Squamish will soon receive a new gathering spot with the construction of a weather-protected public space at 37996 Cleveland Avenue (District-owned public lot and site of the Squamish Farmers’ Market). The structure is part of an initiative that started in 2021 following public feedback for more sheltered areas in order to allow people to safely gather outdoors and undercover in public spaces across the community. District staff collaborated with the Squamish Farmers’ Market and Downtown Squamish Business Improvement Association on the shelter’s location and design to bring the greatest benefit to the downtown area and increase accessibility to the Squamish Farmer’s Market entrance. 

“Our commitment to creating safe and healthy spaces for people to gather has remained consistent over the years since first hearing from residents about the lack of sheltered spaces in Squamish during the COVID-19 pandemic,” says District of Squamish Mayor Armand Hurford. “I am so pleased to be able to work with our community partners on projects like this that create a more safe and vibrant community for everyone to enjoy.”  

The new weather-protected public space will mirror the look and size of its two counterparts located in Stan Clarke Park and at 38174 Cleveland Avenue and will be wheelchair accessible. The $100k budget for the new structure is fully funded by the Canadian Healthy Communities Initiative, an investment initiative from the Government of Canada to transform public spaces in response to the COVID-19 event. 

"The addition of the shelter at the Squamish Farmers Market site will certainly enhance accessibility into the market. It will provide individuals on market day with a welcoming space to gather and shelter from any weather conditions,” says Downtown Squamish BIA Executive Director Kerry Neil. “The shelter will not only facilitate better access to the market but also to the improved accessible parking in that lot which will be available every other day of the week. Additionally, it promises to serve as a versatile event and gathering space. I am looking forward to seeing it used regularly by the patrons of the food trucks in the area.” 

A long-term plan to realign the parking is being considered to compensate for parking stalls impacted by the structure.  

Quick facts 

• A growing need for outdoor covered shelters emerged during the pandemic to allow people to gather safely in public spaces. Wet winters and hot, dry summers make these an ongoing community asset for year-round use. 
• Residents currently utilize Squamish’s covered outdoor spaces in a variety of ways, from buskers to families hosting picnics, birthday parties, playdates and friends sharing a coffee. 
• The cost of the structure includes the need for structural and geotechnical engineers to comply with the BC Building Code, current mass timber prices, and concrete pour requirements.  
• The structures are made using galvanized connection bolts to withstand the sea (salt) air and to minimize the need for future maintenance costs. 

March 8, 2024