Architecture grad says research needed to develop design for safe, enjoyable downtown for all Sudburians

Chris Baziw is a graduate of Laurentian's McEwen School of Architecture, and now an intern at a local firm.

He is frustrated the downtown core is increasingly becoming fortified against public use.

One example is the construction of a $200,000 fence at a downtown church to deter vandalism at night.

Recently, the board of Sainte Anne-des-Pins voted to erect a fence around the church property following several incidents over the past years, including the destruction of one of its statues.

But a walled yard may be pushing people away from the church indiscriminately, Baziw said.

"When you look at trying to control negative behaviours such as vandalism or graffiti, things like building a fence around the property doesn't just keep out people who might be trying to use graffiti, but could keep out people who are trying to visit the church outside of hours," Baziw said. "Or those who are trying to walk by and enjoy the space or the scenery."

"So unintentionally, it's kind of keeping all people out."

Baziw says deciding how to control damage is sometimes difficult, especially when trying to balance protection with creating an attractive space.

"Being a private organization, the church obviously has a right to protect their property," he said. 

"But a fence doesn't have to be ugly, it doesn't have to be overpowering, it doesn't have to be intrusive," he said. 

"When they build the fence, can they can ask themselves, how can this fence also make our property more beautiful or create new opportunities? Can it be used to post signs about the church or about programs being done?"

"So the success of something like a fence like this really comes down to the intentions of the people behind it," he said. 

The state of Sudbury's downtown has been like a "roller coaster," Baziw said.

The introduction of seasonal patios to downtown restaurants and cafes, coupled with several outdoor music events has brought more people, and a sense of renewed life, to the city's core.