Parkette name chosen: Library Commons

LLF Lawyers bought naming rights, but put it to a public vote

The new parkette at the corner of Aylmer and Simcoe streets next to the newly renovated Peterborough Public Library’s main branch will be named Library Commons, the city announced Wednesday.

The reconstruction across the street clearly captured the interest of the voters who determined the name, said city sponsorship co-ordinator Scott Elliott, pointing out how the ballot showed the alignment between the parkette and library projects.

More than 500 votes were received after the city and LLP Lawyers teamed up to ask the public to vote on a shortlist of seven possible names for the site.

Library Commons won with 186 votes, 32 more than secondplace Firehouse Square (154) and 84 more than Robertson Davies Square (102).

Carnegie Square, Brigade Square, W.A. Howard Commons and Dr. Thomas Greer Square followed with 42, 35, 10 and nine respective votes.

The response exceeded Elliott’s expectations.

“That’s a real testament to the community,” he said.

A timeline for the installation of signage has not been set as the tender for park construction has not yet been completed. Elliott suggested the possibility of putting up temporary banners to promote the project, however, for when the work gets underway.

The corner lot, once the site of a law office, will include a new art installation by Toronto architect Patrick Li.

LLF Lawyers gave the city $100,000 for the naming rights to the parkette, but asked the city to hold a public vote for the new name rather than name it after someone from the firm. The law firm worked with city staff to come up with the seven names on the shortlist.

The firm’s $100,000 in funding will be spread over 20 years, with an initial $20,000 to cover the cost of Li’s art installation.

Mayor Daryl Bennett thanked LLP lawyers for partnering with the city.

“This is real change,” he stated in a press release.” The public square is another example of engaging with residents, community groups and the private sector as we build a complete community.”

LLF Lawyers partner Bill Lockington praised the commu-

nity engagement in the process of selecting the name.

“The name identifies well with the geographical area of our community and reflects the importance of our new public library,” he stated.

“Meet me at the Library Commons will become a familiar expression, encouraging public gathering at the square.”