To commemorate the life of the late Terry Hawitt, Parks Foundation created a natural feature located on the river valley ridge in Britannia overlooking Sandy Beach.

DESIGN DETAILS

Based on community feedback, the design incorporates plenty of natural features, including shrubs, plants, boulders, and vegetation. The design has two small benches, seating up to a total of four people and will be nestled among the planting and shrub beds and connected to the existing pathway looking out towards Sandy Beach. The bench incorporates beautiful artistic features into the design and is made with natural wood materials. This design has provided much needed seating and a location to rest and appreciate nature for users walking along the ridge and arriving up the stairs. The design also features subtle connections to Terry’s life and legacy by artistically incorporating quotes, text and/or images into the features of the vista.

BACKGROUND

Terry Hawitt’s community volunteerism began in 1969 and placed focus on projects that combine the preservation of cultural history with the preservation of the natural environment. Hawitt’s work has demonstrated diversity and a positive contribution to his fellow citizens’ cultural well-being. Hawitt has played an enormous role in the development of park spaces in Calgary that are not only beautiful, but hold significant cultural importance, impacting thousands of Calgarians each and every day.

As Parks Foundation’s Founding Director (1985), President (1987-1988) and Member of the Advisory Board, Hawitt was one of the pioneer guardians of the remaining urban, natural environment in our city. Today, the Foundation is considered the foremost initiator and funding resource of programs to preserve natural beauty and ensure the development of parks for all types of recreation.

As a result of Calgary's example, many other cities in Canada and the United States have now established their own volunteer organizations to preserve and create parks and recreational opportunities for their communities.

Overall, Hawitt has played an instrumental role in preserving our heritage through greenspaces, and encouraging others to become involved in principal projects throughout Calgary. He has shown perseverance and extreme dedication to Calgary acting as a leader to many. Without Hawitt’s work over the years Calgary’s outdoor landscape would look very different. Hawitt is well-respected in the community and deserves recognition for the many years of service he has dedicated to improving our city by combining cultural and outdoor preservation.

LOCATION

The Vista will overlook Sandy Beach located along Britannia Dr. SW

The project has been relocated behind a large existing shrub where it will not impact existing views. The height of the project will not exceed any existing park features that are currently in place. Project fundraising is ongoing. Once the project has met its fundraising goals the project will be planned for construction next spring 2023. We have made efforts to listen to community input and look forward to creating a special place for everyone in the community to enjoy.

Cover image credit: Richie Hannah