NEWS RELEASE
TOWN OF NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE
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As part of Council’s Strategic Plan Planning for Progress initiative, the Town has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) to hire an external consulting team to review and expand the Queen-Picton Heritage Conservation District (HCD). This review is a critical step in preserving and celebrating the rich heritage of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Old Town.
Currently, the Queen-Picton HCD includes 10 blocks within the commercial area; however, previous studies have identified potential expansion in the surrounding residential area that could be added to the District. To explore this possibility, the Town has launched a volunteer-driven data-collection effort led by the Town’s Heritage Planning team as the first phase of this process.
During this phase, volunteers will be surveying the built-heritage resources, cultural landscapes, streetscapes, and treescapes that define Old Town’s character. The group includes members of the Municipal Heritage Committee, Niagara-on-the-Lake Museum, the Niagara Foundation, and local historians. Over 12 sessions, the group will complete heritage survey forms and discuss the broader context of the area. The knowledge gained will help shape the HCD review and serve as a valuable resource for future historians and planners.
"This is a great moment for heritage in Niagara-on-the-Lake," stated Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa. "Town Staff, heritage experts, local historians, and volunteers are working together to protect our shared history while planning for future growth. On behalf of Council, I look forward to seeing this Strategic Plan priority move forward."
"Volunteers are essential to this phase," said CAO Bruce Zvaniga. "Their expertise and dedication are building a strong foundation of data that will guide the future review and expansion of the Queen-Picton Heritage Conservation District. This project highlights the Town’s commitment to preserving its historical identity while planning for the future. Thank you to the volunteers, and a special thank you to our Senior Heritage Planner, Candice Bogdanski, for spearheading this important work."
A report summarizing the volunteers’ findings will be presented at the October MHC Meeting, where key themes, concerns, and ideas will be discussed. The hired consulting team will then determine the expanded District boundaries, following Ontario Heritage Act guidelines.
By fostering this partnership and involving diverse voices early in the process, the Town is ensuring that Old Town’s history remains a celebrated part of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s identity for generations to come. Stay tuned for more updates on future public engagement for this initiative.
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