An urban park in Port Coquitlam’s downtown is about to get a makeover and this one should tickle the imaginations of local nature lovers.
Lions Park — one of the oldest parks in the city — is a hidden gem tucked behind a strip mall off Shaughnessy Street and separated from Lougheed Highway by a stand of tall trees.
It’s also popular stop on the Traboulay PoCo Trail, where families can enjoy a picnic and playtime at an elaborate playground.
Soon, with the approval of $65,000 for irrigation and public art, Lions Park will be the site of a whimsical garden with weaving paths in the midst of trees, and intriguing log features, called a stumpery.
The city is currently in the process of inviting artists to submit proposals for a three-dimensional artwork or artwork installation for the green space that weaves together themes of nature and art.
A stumpery is known in gardening circles for utilizing logs, pieces of bark or other old wood which are arranged artistically with plants such as ferns, mosses and lichens, encouraged to grow over and around them.
The area being considered for the whimsical garden is the area next to the parking lot.
According to the city, the proposed artwork should “evoke a sense of discovery, sparking delight, curiosity and surprise in children and visitors of all ages.”
The garden may eventually include overhead archways, special garden features, a seating area, special plantings, as well as a variety of permanent and temporary public art.
The city’s mayor says it will be another popular addition to the park, which was last upgraded about five years ago.
“We’re excited to provide this new feature to Lions Park for our residents and families to enjoy. Our staff do an amazing job with beautifying our parks and outdoor spaces and this new feature will enhance their experience,” Mayor Brad West said in an emailed statement.
The park is located on Lions Way and was originally built in the 1950s with the support of the Lions. It was updated recently.
The request for proposals is open until Sept. 10.
