Base31 Area Concept Plan

The site is bounded by the natural features of Macaulay Mountain Conservation area to the east, and Marsh Creek and the Millenium Trail to the west. Increased tourism, coupled with a projected significant growth in population in the coming decades, has left Prince Edward County with an inflated real estate market creating a housing shortage and unaffordability in the region.

A framework plan inspired by landscape

The vision for Base31 began as an idea about the landscape; the aim was to capture the essence and qualities that make living in Prince Edward County so unique, while creating stronger connections to the site’s surrounding landscape. To achieve this, a system of greenways known as “green fingers” extends out from the Base31 Revitalization District to connect natural features and nearby points of interest. The new landscape introduces bicycle and pedestrian pathways, public recreational amenities, agriculture and creative programming, and a thriving natural environment for the enjoyment of all who reside, work and visit the area.

Between these greenways exist a network of settlements nestled within the common element of the extended landscape. Each village represents a unique neighborhood with a distinct character, providing public amenities and green spaces. Distributed throughout the masterplan are various amenities such as schools, cafes, grocery stores, small businesses, and healthcare facilities, all within walking distance of the village residents. Located at the heart of all the villages is the Revitalization District, serving as a central community asset and popular tourist destination.

Open Space System 

Emanating from the Revitalization District and connecting to the surrounding Macaulay Mountain Conservation Area and the Marsh Creek is the open space system. Woven between the “Green Fingers,” this system introduces new pedestrian trails, bike paths, health and fitness programming, and opportunities for community farming, upholding the paradigm of living with nature. The network also incorporates green infrastructure to create productive and resilient landscapes through water management strategies like rain gardens and bioswales. At the heart of this system will be a central park, serving as a vibrant destination activated by dynamic programming for the entire community.

Housing, Community Amenities, and Mobility

The plan implements a range of housing typologies across the series of villages aimed at addressing the rapidly growing needs of the region. Catered to a variety of ages, incomes, and lifestyles, these typologies introduce a low to mid-density communities across the ten villages.

The development is well connected through a robust streetway, pedestrian walkways, and bike network; all of which link to Picton Main Street and the surrounding region while providing connections to existing local and regional transit systems.

Base31 Neighborhood Plan

The 2023 Engagement Series, which was initiated with the public as the “Base31 Neighborhood Plan”, provided an opportunity for the project team to gather feedback from the community and local stakeholder groups over a five-month period. This effort included three online surveys, a workshop series with subject matter experts across a range of industries, and an in-person community meeting known as the “Idea Fair” – all of which built upon the conversations born from the Revitalization District activations and events held in 2022.

Base31 Revitalization District

Through adaptive reuse of historic buildings, significant investments in placemaking, public art and site programming and activation, the Base31 district is undergoing significant revitalization. The process respects and honors the past, while imagining a new future that aims to transform the region into a renowned cultural tourism destination. The revitalization will help drive the local economy, expanding opportunities for artists, entrepreneurs, and agri-businesses, enhancing the current trends in the County already.

The Framework Plan provides residential, retail, and commercial uses that will complement existing businesses on Picton Main Street, fostering a strong and active sense of community while enhancing the economic prosperity of Picton and Prince Edward County.

An integrated street, bike, and pedestrian network connects Base31 to surrounding villages, with a central pedestrian spine along Makers Way providing a social and a walkable experience within the heart of the district.

On the ongoing activation front, several buildings and outdoor spaces have already been renovated, creating venues for live performances, events, and art exhibitions . The continued programming and activation of Base31 will bring significant visitation to the site and improve the County’s attraction as a four-season destination.