Bill Morrison
Dear Mike:
I must say I am highly disappointed with the plans for the market square and the exit survey that was available to complete at the unveiling!
For example, on the exit survey, the input #3 was, “What do you like best about the proposed design of market square?” My answer, “It was better than the crushed rock vacant lot” but not much more exciting than the historic hotel facade.
Really, a few boulders and a few trees would look better than the empty lot!
Input question #4 was, “What kind of events would you like to see in market square?” Now you ask the question after the design was done!
I was not thinking about a handful of mini events each year on the stage, rain or snow! Hmmm, I was thinking maybe something that would stop tourists, like enclosed, overhanging covered displays of several examples of our history, along with small covered viewing museums, with a fort bastion on a second level—an area that would catch the tourist eye and welcome locals.
Fun for kids and adults alike!
Fill the area with stuff of our history, with plenty of market square kiosks! Something locals will enjoy sharing with family and grandchildren.
Mr. David Bodnarchuk of Scatliff + Miller + Murray said the design is meant to reflect Fort Frances, lake life, and the natural history of Rainy Lake. I didn’t get it, with the stage, uncovered seating, and many strings of lights. There were a few trees and several rocks in the design.
I cannot get the connection except for the fact that yes, we have trees and rocks which are natural in this area. The tourist will see much, much more of this as they drive past to lake destinations!
I probably would not have written to the editor but really, porta-potties! Are you kidding me? When you travel elsewhere, facilities are made available with exceptional amenities!
As an entry point to Canada, we would have porta-potties on Scott Street?
The land already is there, free for the building. I believe a contractor can build a modest home with three bedrooms and two baths for under $250,000. What kind of facilities are in mind for a quarter-of-a-million dollars?
Suppose a tourist stops to check out the market square, and there is nothing open or happening most days, what are they going to do now after a quick look at the trees, rocks, and mini grandstand?
Where are the facilities, they wonder? What else is there to look at? Where are the porta-potties! Let’s face it—the museum will not be open enough hours to relieve this problem!
Mr. Bodnarchuk needs to check out the Winnipeg Museum—interesting stuff on their history designed on old market square ideas.
Having a fort or fort-themed elements in the market square was rejected, with the intent the concept may be explored further at a different location sometime in the future.
The Scatliff + Miller + Murray display indicated three sites where something exciting and tourist-catching could be built.
The old fort has been gone a very long time. Will it be replaced in our lifetimes?
Sincerely,
Bill Morrison
Fort Frances, Ont.
