CITY OF CHARLOTTETOWN: COMPREHENSIVE WATERFRONT MASTER PLAN<strong>Final</strong> <strong>Report</strong> • December 20122.6 Opportunities & ConstraintsA study <strong>of</strong> the opportunities and constraints is a broad look at some <strong>of</strong> the considerations thatwill influence the potential growth and direction <strong>of</strong> the waterfront. In contrast to the site analysiswhich looks at very specific areas, the opportunities and constraints analysis is more a summary<strong>of</strong> issues thatOpportunities:««Historic Character- The story and significance <strong>of</strong> Confederation give<strong>Charlottetown</strong> extra cache in promoting tourism and visitation. Much <strong>of</strong><strong>Charlottetown</strong>’s history is still alive today in the architecture and character <strong>of</strong>the city. It’s mixed uses, traditional building materials, and Victorian buildings alllend the town a unique and authentic air. The use <strong>of</strong> clay brick after the Greatdowntown fire <strong>of</strong> 1866 gives the downtown a unique architectural vernacularthat can be incorporated into more modern buildings on the waterfront.««Cruise Ship Port- The waterfront is the receiving point for thousands <strong>of</strong> annualvisitors arriving via cruise ship. That many people arriving at one single entryprovides an amazingly intense focal point and captive audience. The port shouldbe a node <strong>of</strong> retail, photo-opportunities, scenic development, art, historicinterpretation, or any number <strong>of</strong> memorable experiences.««Public Involvement- Based upon the workshop attendance, the eagerness<strong>of</strong> people to be questioned and interviewed, the amount <strong>of</strong> interest receivedduring the design drop-ins, and the nearly 250 respondents to the online survey,it is obvious that <strong>Charlottetown</strong> has dedicated and civically minded public. This isan asset that can not be undervalued.««Well Defined Path <strong>of</strong> Tourist Travel- The pedestrian dynamics created by currentbuilding placement and walkway patterns direct the flow <strong>of</strong> foot traffic withina very limited and easily recognized path <strong>of</strong> travel. The fact that cruise shipvisitors are generally not dispersed but directed promotes synergy with localtourism operators.««Well Known Green Space- Confederation Landing, situated in the heart <strong>of</strong> thewaterfront, is a well known and high pr<strong>of</strong>ile public space. Confederation Landingis large enough to play host to many outdoor public activities and events, and isfrequently the site for festivals and programs during peak season. Activation <strong>of</strong>this green space with multi-seasonal events will be key to encouraging vibrancyyear-round.««Popular Citizen / Visitor Locale- The unique qualities <strong>of</strong> the waterfront havemade it a popular tourist destination, and it is a well known area for locals. Thewaterfront can capitalize upon its distinct historic and cultural significance t<strong>of</strong>urther promote activities, events, and its retail environment.««Available Lots- There are several high quality waterfront redevelopmentsites. These undeveloped (or redevelopment potential) lots have the potentialto set the stage for new development, usher in a new design paradigm forthe waterfront area, and begin a transformative process which captures theimagination <strong>of</strong> the city and brings people to the waterfront year round.««Good Filtration <strong>of</strong> Downtown- There are no real or perceived barriers betweenthe downtown retail environment and the waterfront experience. The streets,shopfronts, traffic patterns, and historic character <strong>of</strong> the two areas blendseamlessly together. This cohesion between the two areas allows for a greatamount <strong>of</strong> shared pedestrian traffic and flow. The proximity <strong>of</strong> the CBD and goodconnections to the waterfront via Queen, Hillsborough and Great George Streets,provide a year round benefit to the waterfront. If the waterfront can be treatedas an extension to the downtown instead <strong>of</strong> as a suburban waters-edge, thewaterfront will thrive symbiotically with the downtown.««Waterfront Anchors - There has been a good start on the waterfront with a mix<strong>of</strong> retail developments like Peakes Quay, hotel and residential opportunities,an interpretive centre and VIC, urban parks and most importantly, a cohesivewaterfront boardwalk. These anchors are a good start to the waterfront.« « Water Based Activity - Unlike many waterfronts, the water based infrastructureis in good shape and is well used. There are over 250 marine slips, significantquayside berth potential, several boat launches, 3 yacht clubs, and activecruiseship use. There is a lot <strong>of</strong> water activity in the harbour which appeal toresidents and visitors alike. These sites also create several gateways from thewater into the city.24
<strong>Final</strong> 2.3 <strong>Report</strong> Opportunities • December & Constraints 2012CITY OF CHARLOTTETOWN: COMPREHENSIVE WATERFRONT MASTER PLAN25