I Used to Support Lansdowne 2.0. Now I've Changed My Mind
Two years ago, I wrote a column backing the Lansdowne 2.0 redevelopment. I fondly recalled my long connection to this historic urban park and everything it brought to Ottawa — concerts, fairs, exhibitions, conventions, sporting events, even monster truck rallies. Though the plan wasn’t flawless, I believed it was vital.
Residents’ worries about a smaller replacement arena encroaching on the Great Lawn were valid, and the proposed green roof for the event centre had been scrapped. Yet, the roughly 130 events held annually were an important economic boost the city couldn’t afford to lose.
The old Civic Centre where I played pickup hockey and watched strange objects fall from the ceiling was beyond repair. I saw Lansdowne 2.0 as a necessary investment in the city's future.
Still, there were clear flaws: public transit to the site remained inadequate, an on-site car dealership felt out of place, and the abundance of dessert shops was odd. The roof over the North Side stands was missed by devoted football fans. The buildings lacked inspiration, the children’s play area seemed like an afterthought, and the outdoor market was confusing.
"I don’t trust this deal."
Now, I have changed my mind because of that distrust.
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Author's Summary
The initial optimism for Lansdowne 2.0 faded due to distrust in the deal and persistent issues, revealing that economic benefits alone do not justify overlooking community concerns.