Comox means "Place of Plenty". Situated between the ocean and moutnains, the Comox Valley offers a mix of cultural, business and recreational opportunities. In recent years the valley has gained population and continues to grow. (Comox Valley Local Information)

The following excerpts (in italics) are from the Town of Comox Downtown Revitalization Plan.

Downtown should serve the local needs of the residents and provide unique shopping and services for those visiting the Town. It should be a pleasant place with open spaces, parks, and safe pedestrian routes that encourages walking rather than driving. The downtown must capitalize on its small town character and connection to the sea, and there should be a central civic and town square for the use and enjoyment of all. It should also be a vibrant community with people not only shopping and visiting downtown, but also living there (Downtown Comox Revitalization Plan, 1996).

Town of Comox

The Action

This Downtown Revitalization Plan is to be implemented using a "phasing in" program.

Phase 1 -- Town Square Development

Phase 2 -- Comox Avenue

Phase 3 -- Dependent on Market Conditions

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The Comox Revitalization Strategy

A four part plan:

• Downtown Revitalization Plan
• Official Community Plan Downtown
• Downtown Design Guidelines
• The Town Square

The Town of Comox owns strategically located property within the downtown. This land has been targeted as the new civic focus for the downtown, and as a financially responsible way to jump-start the revitalization process. The realignment of Beaufort and creation of the Town Square are recommended as the first phase for Municipal involvement. Involvement of the private sector, with possible joint venturing by the Town, will be used in the creation of market housing, commercial development and underground parking associated with the new Town Square. Replacement, or expansion of the Town Hall will also be considered in this or later phases.

The second phase of Town effort in the revitalization process will concentrate of street beautification of Comox Avenue. This will include the widening of sidewalks for the purpose of traffic calming, creation of comfortable areas to sit, unified street furniture and the undergrounding of electrical services.

Later phases will be dependent on best responding to the market and the development of new commercial and retail functions. All new development will be expected to contribute to the revitalization and beautification program (Excerpt from Downtown Comox Revitalization Plan, 1996).

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