Why: this is a self answering question! What happens when history is reduced to print on paper? Letʼs not destroy the physical history on our very doorstep!

Increasingly in our urbanized world, history needs to be treasured and green spaces for recreation preserved. Natural history links people together. Green spaces are important for healing and for connecting with the natural world.

Natural history is important because so little undeveloped large land parcels are now left due to intense urbanization of surrounding areas. No matter how much “development and modernization” a community achieves, natural land values are crucial for a healthy, balanced society. These healthy, balanced values are natural green space, open space, unobstructed views out to mountains, rivers and fields (Colony Farm lands).

Why build mental facilities in Vancouver when the therapeutic site exists. “Patients” need fresh air and beauty around them.

Natural history of the Riverview Lands is important because it is part of our heritage!

The undeveloped lands should remain that way! There is precious little space for plants and wildlife in our fast-developing community. It cannot be preserved on a postage stamp, but needs space.

Endless words may pass but the intrinsic value of untouched heritage must be shared, preserved, revered. As a country with so little history, can we really think we need so much process to decide something so fundamentally obvious?

Increased awareness of the impact of development on biodiversity ought to compel us to preserve greenspace and rehabilitate it as able – soft footprints in any future development is essential.

It is one of the few river bottom areas left in a very developed region. Save the land for the future and rehabilitate the creeks and streams.

Finnieʼs Garden

The Riverview Hospital land is a treasure in the midst of suburbia. When this is lost it will be regretted by anyone who has known what it was.

The owls and the bears and the eagles and the salmon continue to live in the thickets and tree canopies and streams. It is very special and unusual in an urban space to have such a diverse array of natural habitats. It is not just natural “history.” It is natural “present.” Please let it be a natural “future.”

Save the land as a park!

The natural landscapes are of major importance. They connect the Coquitlam River and Colony Farm with the Riverview Forest and Port Moody Inlet.

Green link for wildlife from Burrard Inlet to the Fraser River. Migration route, seasonally.

Legacy is vital. This natural land and ecosystem belongs to citizens of yesteryear, now and future, but especially the animal creatures that call this land home. Save it for them!

Riverview Creek, Lost Creek, Davidsonʼs Creek, wetlands.

Examples of trees such as are found on this ground are priceless in terms of their aesthetic, educational, and scientific values. This site will be world-renowned if it becomes a preserve or educational centre. International society of municipal arbourists.

There is no other place like it. The heritage trees are also a one of a kind collection – eliminating these is to destroy valuable history which cannot be resurrected once destroyed! Take a page from world renowned heritage sites eg. Boston. I was there recently and saw teams of workers working on preserving old buildings.

c.2000-2001, Girl Guide trips to visit and sing at Christmas and another time to see the trees.

Save the trees!

Trees such as this take a very long time to grow to the size of these. They are worth preserving – they do it in Europe, why not here? Arboretums are great draws for academic studies as well as tourists. The cannot be replaced. They have heritage value as well as buildings do.

The trees are a legacy, a gift to be held for all future generations. It is up to the present generations to make this so.

The trees contribute to the fresh air of Coquitlam. We do not have a heritage park of this size in Coquitlam. It needs to be maintained as a park. The trees are specimens that if cut down will never be replaced.

The tree collection is unique and irreplaceable. They are the lungs of the region and must be preserved.

Once gone, these trees can never be replaced.

This collection needs to be managed for health and life cycle. Exotic trees and plants need to be replaced in kind.

How long would it take to recreate this piece of nature? Answer: infinity. It can never be recreated. It is priceless.

It is so therapeutic for the mind and soul. I have gone through the ups and downs of life without medications as the serenity of the Riverview Lands calmed my spirit. The tree collection is so valuable as a teaching resource. My daughterʼs Brownie group came here to study about trees – wow, what a learning experience!

Why: The trees are a priceless asset to the entire region. They must be preserved at any an all costs. There are things money cannot buy and 100-year-old trees and rare trees are among those few.
What: The very grounds themselves are an oasis of peace and tranquility, again, priceless.

Hear, hear!

Yes, yes!

Please donʼt destroy what has taken 100 years to produce.

The arboretum is immensely valuable and must not just be guarded but stewarded. Caring for the trees and renewing the arboretum as trees reach their inevitable lifespan.

Trees take a long time to grow. These trees have been here for a long time – time and growth are priceless and timeless.

What: To present a pleasing and soothing impression. Early planting by John Davidson the provinceʼs first botanist who developed the first botanical garden on this site. Trained a Kew Gardens in England. Also developed western Canadaʼs oldest arboretum, all planned and connected to beautifully designed heritage buildings all over the Riverview site.

The remarkable collection of trees and landscaped spaces is of extraordinary educational and recreational value. The value is not just in individual features or things. The value is in the entire, organized well-rooted arrangement of paths, grass fields, trees and vistas. The whole is greater than the sum of the individual features.

These trees are not what you would find in your backyard. So awesome.

The grounds and trees are the highest quality any park can provide. Many specimen trees came from people who much later developed the UBC Botanical Garden. This was an earlier botanical garden and continues to be. Itʼs beautiful in all seasons and must be retained for future generations. These trees and grounds cannot be replaced.

Need more citizen participation walks / school groups / Scouts / Girl Guides etc. to see and appreciate grounds.

The tree collection is all over the Lands. There is no “arboretum area.” This could be an internationally recognized horticultural destination. A “remnant” is better than nothing. Cultivated by trained landscapers to very high standards.

The trees are a world class collection of mature trees which add immeasurably to the grand landscape design. Of course the are important!

These trees have been planted specifically to fit into the landscape. The collection of trees is unprecedented in the area of Vancouver. It is a jewel in the crown and should not be lost.

Walking for residents is healthful. Seeing the changing seasons is important. We need green space for the increasing population around Coquitlam Centre. Mundy Park is one experience but earlier or later day walking needs a well-lit place. Itʼs safe. Itʼs good for the healthy to interact with residents. This is a “Stanley Park.” We wonʼt get it back.

Stanley Park, Central Park … people with vision saved these, we need to save Riverview.

The Beech trees, the Oaks. If properly managed, these could be as good or better than UBCs gardens.

Trees planted are some of the best mature specimens existing anywhere. Well tended when young and well planned, even though badly neglected in recent years, they survive and would continue to thrive and play a role in connecting humans to the majesty of the trees. These kinds of trees in European jurisdictions are considered a heritage structure and have budgets and government programs to look after them. Why do we even consider removing them?

One just has to look at the residential development directly to the west and across the river to the east to see how landscapes can be destroyed for the mighty $. Plants are landscapes and this includes old growth and new growth as well as undergrowth and open fields.

The fruit trees are testament to and evidence of the heritage – beauty to be saved. The garden is worthy of preserving as a heritage garden.

The treesʼ colours through seasons, buildings as descriptive as they are, are a photographerʼs dream. Encourage students and schools.

My husband and I have walked through this park several times for therapy, relaxation, fresh air and exercise. This must be very therapeutic for the patients that still reside there.

Keep the trees, keep the green space. Once bulldozed we cannot go back. In an urban environment, green space is very important.

The trees are important to me at all seasons. They support us mentally, physically and spiritually. The open lawns are serene in a hectic world. Greenness and quietness is healing. Finnieʼs garden, re-created by volunteers, is a magnet for people and wildlife alike. Allow the arboretum and open space to be a treasured space in this Lower Mainland of condos and roads.

The social benefits to both patients and visitors are in part due to the landscape and calming nature of the Riverview Lands. The stewardship efforts have contributed to these benefits.

Significant trees throughout the Lands.

Ianʼs beech tree.

Trees and gardens.

Orchard.

Sequoia, Ginkgo.

Tree nursery.

We need to preserve our history as well as our heritage. Where else in Coquitlam do we see buildings like this?

There is no other place like it. The architecturally historic buildings are priceless. Take a page from world renowned heritage sites eg. Boston. I was there recently and saw teams of workers working on preserving old buildings.

The heritage value of the buildings needs to be preserved.

More recent Lodge buildings.

Terrible that patients had to look at noise / traffic of highway and railway [from the Valleyview building]. Patientsʼ Bill of Rights.

Patient labour! Especially the land clearing and the stone walls. Stone walls, stone stairs – so many! Made by patients. Should be measured and displayed.

Refurbish older buildings into education centres for heritage themes with donated fixtures from the past to compliment the heritage lands and walkways.

Design that is coherent with the sweep of the space and the landscape is a part of the intrinsic character of Riverview. This must be a value in all future thinking.

The design is important for its historic aspects.

The province has very few grand buildings and therefore it would be very important to maintain the restore the remarkable, century-old buildings. The landscape could be described as grand, but it is also magnificent, serene, and peaceful, and cannot be replaced. It took a century to create and should remain for residents to enjoy for centuries more.

This example of unique architecture displayed in these large buildings is ultra-rare and once lost are like an animal species that will become extinct if knocked down.

The present architecturally historic buildings could be restored and utilized for what they originally used for – mentally ill patients. The buildings could become “condos” for the patients who are being shipped out to the Downtown East Side – not too therapeutic for oneʼs health! The buildings could also be used for medical facilities for the patients. We need to give back to what we have robbed from the mentally ill!

All the buildings have a story to tell – the heritage buildings for sure but some of the more modern buildings are very functional and should still be in sue for health care – Valleyview, Henry Esson Young etc.

Well designed buildings not only have a use but also represent the strivings of past times. There must be some buildings for future generations to see for their beauty of design and form. Glass and steel is functional but cold and can be frightening or threatening.

The design is vitally important for its uniqueness. There is nothing else like this amazing collection of buildings in this special setting. Centre Lawn, East and West Lawn are majestic in stature and design and should be preserved for arts, culture and heritage uses.

It is a real treasure to find such a connected landscape in an urban setting. Those who originally developed the site and landscaping understood how a connection to the natural world was therapeutic for our mental health. For a while, this was forgotten but now it is being re-discovered. To risk destroying this space and design now would be travesty. In a short time it would be sadly regretted.

The wooden bowling alleys in Penn Hall are important heritage structures.

These buildings should be restored and used for the mentally ill. If that is not possible, new buildings should be built to house the mentally ill. The way these people are treated is uncivilized and is not something Canada should be proud of.

Architectural history is so important, should be declared a national / provincial historical site. No real estate / partition of property.

All the work the patients did on site is very special, eg. rock walls and stairways.

These healing acres are for the handicapped, taking them away requires low ethics and morals. It is like “stealing candy from a baby.”

The change in architecture through the years gives the grounds a feeling of place and history of architecture covering 100 years.

The Riverview design was developed over 100 years ago. Throughout this time, designs, treatment and uses have changed and evolved. I believe we have now come full circle and accept that the early Riverview design was an excellent model to treat the human mental condition and now due to high density development, humans need a space like this for stress release and nature reconnection. We should not have to go to the Rockies to see open spaces and feel a connection with natural surroundings. The placement of buildings, walkways, trees are all integrated to invite humans in and feel the pull of greenery, soothing bird songs, etc.

Mysterious fire occurred and Penn Hall closed.

Key buildings should be preserved. Current standards would require new buildings that can be built with heritage designs.

What are the key buildings?

You wouldnʼt tear down the Parliament Buildings in Victoria, why would you want to raze the Riverview heritage buildings?

Keep development of high-rises and condos off and develop “responsibly.”

This place cannot be re-created, but can serve as a park-like setting for generations to come. The major large buildings should be maintained. Some areas can still be used for more current mental health treatment. The need for asylum still exists.

This is a site devoted to mental health and was cutting edge in its day. The only reason it isnʼt cutting edge in mental health research / diagnosis / treatment is lack of leadership and loss of our soul. The mentally ill are some of the most neglected in our society.

My primary concern is the preservation of green space and historic trees. Second is the footprint of the buildings and the relationship to the green space. Third is the actual look of the buildings. Put all this together and I would not be unhappy with future uses that preserved green, trees and footprints, but only facades of selected structures.

The planning and design of the buildings and grounds was inclusive and well thought out. These elements have stood the test of time and ideally should continue to be used for the benefit of the mentally ill. New buildings could be created on the footprints of existing buildings to treat, house, recover the evicted mentally ill patients.

How dare you! Try to develop these beautiful lands.

Please leave the land alone. Too many areas are destroyed by development. Take your time with the development process.

This site requires maintenance. Too much has been neglected in the past few years. Work is required.

Library / Henry Esson Young building, lecture theatres, classrooms, heritage parlour.

Cottages.

Boiler house.

Historical buildings – Lawn buildings, Crease Clinic.

The patients worked in Finnieʼs Garden and this provided tremendous therapy for them.

Maintaining Riverview for support of mental health patients is critical, but those people deserve to be cared for in modern facilities. A private/public partnership would help in allowing the re-development of the Lands. Upgraded and new buildings to serve primary, secondary and tertiary needs. Open spaces in their natural condition preserved. Small component of market housing with buffer to existing lands.

The buildings should be oriented to increase walking between facilities. Walking is excellent for health. Regarding building size, small buildings require much froe staff. Is there no means of creating humane density? Who is going to care for the aging population without resources for at-home nurses? What is the demographic bell curve telling you?

When my brother lived at Riverview, he was socially active, physically active walking the grounds, and so happy! Since he has been sent to live in the Downtown East Side, he no longer walks, sits in his room, as he is scared to go out into the Vancouver “jungle” and has totally deteriorated. Riverview Lands is definitely a place for treatment, so good for the mind.

These places saved lives, allowed to heal, rather than set adrift. The grounds function as a sanctuary. The lands absorbed the mental illness (eg. screaming is accommodated.

Penn Hall was important as a place of fun, socialization.

There is along history of treating the mentally ill here.

Tranquility, spiritual, peace, quiet, calm. Horticultural therapy. Green space, watercourses, wetlands, biodiversity, wildlife habitat. Seven creeks traverse the lands, some with fish such as salmon, coho. Beauty of the seasons, winter spring, summer and fall. Rolling hills, trails and meadows, open spaces to walk, bike or run for recreational value. Open to view, panoramic views – Golden Ears mountains to the north, Mount Baker to the south. Place of healing, wellness, refuge and protection.

There are few sanctuaries left, very few that can match this one.

The therapeutic history allows us to know where we have been and how treatment policies have changed. Hitosry ties us to where we live. The fact that people, highly stressed in the world today, need places of beauty and quietness to recreate themselves.

Let the buildings go. Save the landscape

Riverview needs to be for mental health care treatment and after care. It would be great to include educational psychological teaching / research facility or a small version of one. UBC, SFU, Douglas College could all be involved. We will need an area for an increase in dementia-related diseases.

The whole context of the history of mental health care over the years is important. This is the only place where it is visual.

These lands belong to the mentally ill. They should remain dedicated to primary research and treatment. We have so much more to learn.

We need to understand our progress in treatment deeply, visually and emotionally. The Lands help this. The Lands are an asylum in the true sense of the word.

Riverview has always been important to the local region since it opened for its therapeutic purposes. No NIMBY happening here. We want it here.

This facility needs to be turned into a teaching facility to help with the impending increase in people with age-related mental health and other issues. We could create a world-class geriatric studies centre.

Therapeutic history is important because we cannot go forward if you donʼt know where you have been. So much “modern” research now tells us that mental health is greatly helped and influenced by being exposed to open spaces, natural surroundings, fresh air, places to walk and take exercise. Guess what? Riverview has all this, we own it, letʼs just look after it and let it continue to treat us as was envisioned over 100 years ago. We have retained so little of our gracious old buildings anywhere in Metro Vancouver. The buildings at Riverview as a group represent so much history and are fine architectural specimens of their day. Large spaces like this could be put to great uses in the future.

The therapeutic value of the open spaces is not only a matter of history and heritage. Three days ago, I said hello to a group of five male patients who were enjoying a safe and peaceful walk across the entire site. A leader kept an eye on the slow walkers, demonstrating their sense of a healing community.

We must not hide this history. We must also recognize the designation of the lands and buildings, integrating history, intent and heritage values.

Finnieʼs Garden is a very special place and should be kept for its original use.

Letʼs plan together with the Kwikwetlem First Nations for their involvement in the future of Riverview. They have much to offer in stewardship and connection to Colony Farm activities. And the First Nations community, like every community, could be involved in enhanced mental health and addictions programs.

Think ahead for amenities like Stanley Park.

This was their home. They were comfortable here. Adaptability is important, but not total destruction. There is an excellent plan already developed for “adaptive uses.”

Retain what has been bought and paid for by earlier citizens of British Columbia.

By all means adapt present Riverview to now address homelessness, addiction, etc. these lands, buildings and planned gardens were initially developed for similar uses in their day. Now we update to 2012 and use this resource to treat problems evident in our BC society today.

The needs of a large growing city are complex and multi-faceted. This site was a cutting edge / responsive facility serving the needs of the most vulnerable in society, responding to change and challenges. We must look backward and forward at the same time and for the same purpose.

Yes. Much of this facility can be used fro current mental health care. It just needs to adapt to the present, as it has in the past.

Currently the Lands are adapting to neglect and may need to adapt to the depredations of the developers and greed.

I donʼt believe mental health should be part of Riverview. For years the people with such problems were shoved out of the way. Riverview was the answer – a dismal, foggy place out of the way (although it is not as foggy now as in years past). Think of it this way, sunshine, gardening and animals all help people feel better but all these important elements to a healthy life are in short supply at Riverview. In this area, if you want to garden, itʼs difficult, one good crop every four years. This is depressing, along with the dismal, foggy we weather at this location. Canʼt we treat mentally ill people with better elements that this?

Adapt, do not destroy … the value will be lost if the alteration is too drastic – concrete, high density, etc.

First Nations reserve must be respected as their legacy during Riverview Hospitalʼs evolution to meet our current mental health issues, drug / alcohol detox treatments and recovery programs are sadly lacking in Metro Vancouver. Why not Riverview Hospital? Local hospitals cannot support increasing numbers of dementia patients displaced from Riverview and hard core drug addicts who require their own space and skilled medical support. Homeless shelters are a band aid, not equipped to support or treat these vulnerable folks, many of who are now homeless as a result of Riverview closures. Would our forebears support closing this down? No. Providing care continues to be important.

The adaptability can be seen in the diverse uses of the site – health care, arborists, dog walkers, radio hobbyists – who have used the location in harmony for decades. And now the spaces are used for newer buildings and facilities that reflect modern care practices. The 244 acres can be adaptable and multi-purpose into the future.

Besides for mental health uses, some of the buildings should be adapted and refurbished for uses like offices for community groups, arts and cultural groups, and recreational facilities.

People can adapt to many things, good and bad. Sometimes it is better to step back! Riverview can and still should be a healing place. Un-adapt and restore to an exceptional health facility again.

Adapt – fine. But some things must not be lost. Public ownership, public access, priority use for mental health treatment, the tree collection, the heritage buildings – these things should remain constant.

I agree.

Letʼs plan together with the Kwikwetlem First Nations for their involvement in the future of Riverview. They have much to offer in stewardship and connection to Colony Farm activities. And the First Nations community, like every community, could be involved in enhanced mental health and addictions programs.

It has value for film making and dog walking.

Slow speed limits and an unhurried landscape.

Patients felt good about doing their jobs.

“Heʼs a local” speaks of the importance of Riverview in the life of Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam.

It takes a village …

It is important to build on previous citizensʼ vision, not just discard it and arrogantly believe we now know better. We are doomed to repeat past mistakes!

It has value for film making and dog walking.

Enduring social institutions in Coquitlam and Port Coquitlam.

Penn Hall was such an important part of the social lives of patients. One girl who was discharged from Riverview used to come back every Friday that they had a dance. That was her community, her social life. Others go to night clubs, golf course, a trip to Hawaii. For some mentally ill, all they had was Penn Hall. It should have been replaced.

Everyone had jobs. Patients washed floors, polished taps …

Generations of workers at Riverview.

People here often married co-workers.

People today need to know what it was like. Milk comes from cows, not the supermarket. Community gardens are important.

My brother used to farm on the Lands, did upholstery, made rocking chairs … At Riverview, idle hands lead to idle minds! It was such a vibrant community and could become so again if properly planned.

This is an iconic facility that has been terribly neglected. It is not just a Coquitlam / Port Coquitlam facility (although it is hugely significant in these communities). It is a core part of BCʼs history.

The community spirit can be seen in the positive interactions of the people who have walked, lived and visited.

There are those who canʼt see the forest for the trees. And there are those who canʼt see the trees for the forest. But even for those who see the trees and forest, rarely do the see the roots, without which neither the trees nor forest could exist.

I loved the seasonal landscape as the light lamps were lit up with Christmas decorations. So lovely!

The idea of a complete therapy for mental illness, where patients had meaningful activities and interaction with the community, was successful and far-sighted.

We need more community gardens, people need activities. Bike trails and gardens are very important.

The concept of self-sufficiency is almost lost today, especially for mentally ill people. This should be re-created and the work of the patients and staff kept on record.

Community spirit is evidenced by people coming together to save the Lands.

Why not add education for the public on growing food, composting, as well as involving residents benefiting from the pleasure of growing their food? It sure beats TV and cigarettes.

Self-sufficiency is great profit, not a consideration or goal.

Maintain a balance. Need to be practical in decision-making.

In this great province we have a large, unacceptable number of homeless people, many of whom have mental health problems. This is the reason they are homeless. Riverview could be developed to provide “sheltered” housing for many of these folks. By using the example of the Downtown East Side, the Riverview community could provide a healthy, self-sufficient, independent life within a sheltered community model. The addicted, alcohol syndrome, disadvantaged, etc. need a place to be their home. Group homes come and go at the whims of government. To develop a “community” to house these folds would be the best use of the Riverview Lands. Why sell it off just to used hard to find mental health dollars to buy housing sites for homeless people?

Maintain community by preserving Riverview. What could be easier?

Riverview Hospital was a total community, self-sufficient with food, community centre, bus stop, post office, gardens and open space, chapel etc. It was very important to so many patients and families, it should be preserved intact. Much of the forest has already been developed.

Future homeless retirement destination property.

These Lands once provided 2,000 jobs and had green space.

Farmers markets operated by patients. Incentives, recycling, entrepreneurship, can contribute, can be useful. UBC for the homeless.

Riverview as a community has a better chance of healing people with mental illness than isolating them in sterile city spaces. People need a community to help them heal as well as grow. People need exposure to varieties of socialization and healing and less segregation. Riverview could also serve for the homeless, battered women, etc. There are spaces sitting empty!

I remember Christmas at East Lawn. Dances, singing, fun. It really made my family happy. So much can be done for the mentally ill if given a proper facility. This facility is Riverview.

Patients harvested hay in 1913 and grew potatoes. The nursery produced 17,593 pounds of new potatoes. Bees in their first year produced 381 pounds of honey. In 1916, plants at the botanical garden John Davidson estimated to number about 26,000, which were transported to the Point Grey site of UBC.

Pennington Hall has great memories for me. Loved the staff. It was a real “socially” happening place and my brother thoroughly loved it. We used to bowl there. A real shame it closed.

Letʼs plan together with the Kwikwetlem First Nations for their involvement in the future of Riverview. They have much to offer in stewardship and connection to Colony Farm activities. And the First Nations community, like every community, could be involved in enhanced mental health and addictions programs.

How about the Kwikwetlem First Nation? Isnʼt this their land?

The Lawn buildings, Crease Clinic, the Boysʼ Industrial School “cottages,” all the residences, and the Administration building. These are all excellent heritage rated. Other buildings: Henry Esson Young, North Lawn, Penn Hall, Valleyview have excellent facilities. Together this collection has potential for use as educational, conference, or art centre in harmony with mental health treatment and research,

Save it all as a park.

The clearest sign of successful, diverse stewardship is that Riverview has existed as a mental health facility and a world-class arboretum. These groups have worked collaboratively together, jointly sharing the space and respecting each other. A sign of poor stewardship is Riverview Heights subdivision that simply took earlier lands for a single purpose.

“It is very important for people, especially children, who live in cities to have an opportunity to experience nature. That is what makes the Riverview Lands so important. I hope it will be seen as already fully developed and left for people to experience.” Dr. David Suzuki

The lands should be returned for the enjoyment of who they were created for ititially – the mentally ill. They need a place for restorative health.

Why build a building in Vancouver as has been suggested when this site is so supremely more beautiful. Patients were moved to the Vancouver streets years ago in a failed experiment so they should be moved back where they belong.

Properly managed for healthy forests, gardens and lawns. Restored waterways and conservation initiatives. Flora and fauna preserved and enjoyed in concert with human activity.

Letʼs involve Kwikwetlem Band in the discussion. How can it benefit from the future uses of these lands?

The people who came before created a gem at Riverview – a sanctuary for the mentally ill, mystic trees, beautiful green spaces and wildlife habitat connecting Colony Farm and Riverview Forest. It is a fantastic community amenity for mental wellness. We need to honour the people created Riverview by having it continue.

The future generations deserve this.

If the First Nations have any connection with this area, we owe it to them to respect that and not just disregard what they feel like we have in the past. Many citizens feel a great attachment to this place because we live nearby and see what intense urban development has done to the surrounding area. Many of us have dealt with mental health issues or know these who are suffering still and understand that Riverview could provide a ray of hope for future mental health treatment and community. Many of us can make the connection from past history to present day reality. How does the song go – “take paradise and put up a parking lot.” Is this what we as British Columbians aspire to for the last piece of paradise in our midst?

Riverview is not just an icon of grand ambition. It is an icon of a deep commitment to the health and well-being of the people of the province. It is an icon of a caring society that creates a safe and healing environment for people. The icon is now the smaller buildings (Cottonwood, etc.), many more of which can be built in and around the landscaped setting. The more tragic icon is the empty buildings while patients needing health care are living in the streets or filling jails.

There are not many iconic spaces left. Weʼre losing our story and sense of place. We can put houses on everything or we can values the unique spaces and honor their intended purposes.

The whole remaining site is an icon and the legacy of the far-sighted men and women who planned and created it. It is the legacy of the patients whose labour created and maintained it.

Very few people in North America and Canada value historical sites. It is important as part of the history of Coquitlam and for that reason alone should be saved. It is almost like a Capability Brown landscape that has been planted purposefully. You would never find this anywhere else.

The cemetery has space for others. Do we want to use it? Example – a small Church of England church in Australia that has its own cemetery (old English style) invites people to choose to use their cemetery. Applicants mush achieve the criteria, eg. relatives already buried there or some claim to historical aspect of church, etc.

If you need to be told why itʼs important you will never understand.

I have walked my dogs along the back road and it is beautiful. It is so peaceful. You could spend the whole day there. It is a very special place. The whole of Riverview is very special and should be preserved.

I agree.

The entire urban forest and all its benefits to our social, environmental and economics of the Tri-Cities communities.

The iconic spaces in the Tri-Cities included Oakalla / Deer Lake, Woodlands, BC Pen and Riverview. Some of Deer Lake lands remain, the others are gone. Riverview Lands are a crown jewel to be preserved.

I agree.

All aspects of the early Riverview Lands have their place in history. The site is centrally located in Metro Vancouver, well served by public transit, easy access to highways and roads. The intense development of surrounding lands has left Riverview as an island of green space which although neglected still retains much of itʼs early historical buildings. This is our Ankor Wat or Windsor Castle. Why would we want to destroy it just to sell more condos? “We” actually donʼt. Someone in “government” does.

Cemetery.

Riverview has saved lives and should continue to do so.

Therapeutic labour contributed by patients:

• 774 days building a stone fence around boundary
• 1,579 days clearing the land
• 831 days digging drains and ditches
• 9,571 days grading the land
• 2,726 days lawn maintenance
• 660 days building roads
• 6,400 days doing other activities

Sold in 1904 to King / Crown (public lands)
First settlement Kwikwetlem First Nation
Was originally 1,000 acres (how and who sold this off?)

Thanks to all who continuously work to keep our community great.

Please do not develop these lands any more. This space and buildings are heritage. The trees are amazing and must be saved for the future. I will be a tree hugging granny if development takes place.

UBC for the homeless that never should have ended up on the street with no hope, no help and no family.

Riverview Hospital was a happy and comfortable home where people felt accepted and valued. There were 5,000 people there in the 1960s. This deserves recognition as a historical site. The history can be combined with recreation and serve the community in the future – gardens, trees, walking trails, etc.

Riverview is a hospital and should remain a hospital.

Preserve / Reinvigorate / Renew: Heritage, environmental / arboretum, cutting edge mental health facility.

There is no dollar value to the Riverview Lands, they are “priceless.” Valuable to the mind and soul of both the mentally ill and “normal.” What is normal anyways? With a serene sanctuary like Riverview, all can reach their potential physically (walking the grounds), mentally (inspirational), and spiritually (look up at the trees).

Timeline for report is too short. Public workshops should be held in schools, City Hall, etc. Other groups contacted ʻstakeholdersʼ at workshop?

You have missed any mention of wildlife values. Swifts live in some of the old chimneys, bats and barn owls (which eat insects and rodents) roost / nest in the building sites, green areas connect with Mundy Park and Colony Farm. Salmon returning to creeks, south facing land used extensively by migratory birds …

Signage at front of venue.

Save the woods.

You have missed the overall picture. In segmenting it you have lost the spirit of the Lands.

Riverview and Colony Farm used to be run in conjunction with one another. A working farm providing work for the mentally ill. Where could you find a better combination, producing one of the top breeding farms in Canada. What a loss.

Supported financially by the province.

Advertising for todayʼs event inadequate. Perhaps some signs around the community for the next event and email messages which could be sent around. This subject is too important not the have the largest participation possible.

Natural forested areas for wildlife complements the cultivated landscape.

Educational value of hillside and river. Introduce children to First Nations culture through experiencing the natural environment.

Fabulous cycling access between older parts of Coquitlam (southwest) and Colony Farm and Port Coquitlam trail. Safe cycling and gentle slopes.

Ravines, streams with fish in them, trees for birds and animals, green corridor between Colony Farm and Port Moody. Valued for migrating birds and animals.

High quality land and soil should not be buried under houses. Green space larger than Central Park in NYC is treasured.

We must preserve the beauty of Riverview and our city. It adds beautiful green space and is a special place for everyone to enjoy and explore.

Riverview is a remarkable site that combines important natural areas with glorious groomed ones and the tree collection, this makes it unique and very special. Add in the views and the buildings – wow.

Riverview preserved for future generations just the way it is.

Riverview is an integral portion of a “green infrastructure,” a significant patchwork of green space that is vital to habitat and territorial range protection. Consider Mundy Park, Riverview Forest, Riverview, Colony Farm, Douglas Island. Essential habitat and “green links” support.

Connections to other green space, especially Colony Farm. Large open space is rare and valuable.

Greenery helps to clean our already polluted air.

The vegetated hillside and (mostly) lack of paving make these lands very valuable as a water supply for the Coquitlam River and its tributaries and wetland. No development on these lands.

The river and wetlands are an integral component for sustaining the area around the lower Coquitlam River.

Biodiversity.

Views, nature, refuge from city.

Excellent wildlife corridor.

Environmentally sensitive.

Clean groundwater is needed.

Collection of trees. Huge selection (1600 at least), part of the overall design with the architecture. Natural form of trees. First botanical garden, then moved by horse and wagon. Associated with nursery. Plants – many provincial institutions have Riverview specimens.

Green space in an urban setting. The trees were planted to complement the buildings.

Green open space with a notable collection of trees. Appreciation of nature / spirit.

Sum total of the place. Historical significance through association with Henry Esson Young. The quality of the landscape is superb and deliberate – nothing like it. The terrain is key.

Huge variety of planted trees – arboretum. Educational value for future serenity, tree identification and the unique characteristics of various trees.

Historically the arboretum story (created by John Davidson) is something of great value and should be celebrated and preserved along with the site. More public awareness of the history of the Lands it what Iʼd like to see.

Please leave the Riverview Lands just the way they are. They are a valuable green space in our ever-increasingly built up space, for people and wildlife.

I agree, the trees are for the generations to come and the only un-pruned (natural) ones of their kind. They offer enhanced healing for everyone in terms of therapeutic value as well.

Peaceful, therapeutic, historical value. A cultural gem and a refuge. Please listen.

Do not let real estate in or high rise buildings.

These amazing trees were a highlight of drives during my childhood.

This was always meant to be for the people in a form of health care whether mental or physical care for our soul. What right to sell without our consultation. This is ours.

This planted landscape – and the potential to return to the some of its historical attributes (re-establishing the botanical garden) offers a ʻuniquenessʼ which would have caused the site to be snapped up decades ago by a National Trust type society in Europe. It is one of the many qualities possessed by Riverview that gives the site such possibilities for becoming a community gem and thus could be the region on the map if proper foresight is shown.

Magnificent arboretum of trees to treasure. Wide open green spaces which are inviting for peaceful walks, nature viewing and contemplation. Spectacular vistas of surrounding areas.

Open space valuable in a dense urban environment. Important for current mental wellness.

We need green space. Progress is keeping a natural spacious haven. Stanly Park for Vancouver, Mundy Park and Riverview for Tri-Cities.

Any other country would have claimed these lands for the benefit of the whole community long ago eg. Giverny, Trianon, etc. Tree collection a rare and unique blessing.

Riverview Lands contain a garden of specimen trees – a destination for people travelling the globe. It is a treasure for Coquitlam and the Greater Vancouver region.

The mental health benefits of the planted landscape are the same benefits that need to continue into the future, regardless of the future status of the hospital. Amongst much soulless development, the Riverview Lands and the planted landscape are a critical component of our sense of place. It gives us value in our community and its loss would have significant negative consequences on of sense of community.

My husband and I love to walk and ride our bicycles through the Riverview Lands. We love the peacefulness and grandness.

Arboretum – rare / unique.

Riverview is a treasure and a part of our legacy to our children and grandchildren. We have a unique opportunity here and we would be remiss not to protect this green space for future generations. Preserve Riverview. Save the most incredible and beautiful open grown arboretum in Canada.

The green space and wide open areas provide an opportunity to relax away from the hectic pace found elsewhere throughout the city.

This is the site of Western Canadaʼs first botanical garden. One of the finest collection of trees in Canada and the Pacific Northwest.

Space and trees create a place of contemplation.

Restore botanical garden. Respect what early Kew gardeners formed.

Arboretum – get among trees, peacefulness.

Fog.

Views to Golden Ears and Port Mann bridges.

Enjoyed seeing the manicured holly trees because they were unusual at that time.

Rock walls and stairs at Finnieʼs Garden. They are physically impressive, associated with Finnie (nurse), and with the history of therapy which included patients building the wall.

Country estate is also a campus with sense of university eg. spaces for contemplation and inspiration. Landscaping is also a heritage treasure particularly so given it is “mature” having been worked for over 100 years.

Beautiful heritage buildings should be maintained and restored as necessary. They will outlast anything new that could be built today.

Can be used as a museum for all the wonderful pieces of history that are being lost and otherwise misplaced.

The marble and architectural features need to be maintained and shown to future generations how we have evolved.

Is Fraser Health looking at Valleyview Pavilion yet? Shame.

Technically advanced buildings. Sign of the architectural connection with Victoria cathedral competition assessor who was promoting reinforced concrete.

Brick, maybe made on site, represents self-sufficiency.

Central porticoes or front central façade. Increased decorative value and provided an agreeable scale.

The buildings can be repurposed.

Buildings are valuable because of their unique style, still useful with modifications, palatial and impressive, and historically interesting.

Campus form lends itself to be adapted to many different uses.

The size of the grounds is unique in the middle of urbanization.

Winding, slow, scenic roads.

The outer shells of the buildings should be retained as a reminder of the care we gave to the mentally ill. The insides should be repurposed for educational, civic and therapeutic use.

The buildings are beautiful. They symbolized that society really cared for the mentally ill.

Interesting trees, patterns and spaces.

The Riverview Lands and buildings are a heritage legacy which must never be lost to the people of British Columbia. The natural beauty contained within this 244 acres is an ecosystem unique in balance continually evolving and changing with the life it protects. It must be kept accessible to the public of our province. It must be always dedicated to the needs of the mentally ill and for the mental well-being of all British Columbians.

The Riverview Lands have provided a safe haven for those that sought help in healing. The beautiful grounds and “village” layout allowed patients to move about in a community where they could be themselves. Riverview can continue to serve as a place of respite.

Long views not actually part of the plan. The growing in of trees represented the long term view, long term planning and long term use.

Still needed for an ever-increasing density all around us. Please no market housing in such a precious and beautiful space.

We are quick to destroy, replace and modernize but we forget the history, what weʼve learned and how we can progress with reminders like Riverview. The landscape is irreplaceable, the heritage is necessary and the location is perfect to help future generations in many ways. Modernize, add, but do not destroy in the name of progress.

The heritage buildings are unique and add to the character of the site. They bring direct and indirect value by attracting the movie industry. Break that character and those benefits stop. The buildings are an essential element of the sense of place.

The heritage buildings and the grand (now deteriorating) walkway help us to remember how gardens and community centres have been a place of refuge over time. The Riverview site has a grand, palatial feel.

What about out returning veterans and those suffering from post traumatic stress disorder?

Grand design and comfortable living for those in need of healing. So forward and enlightened in their treatment of the mentally and emotionally ill.

Cottages are homey, older architecture, more intimate.

Nurseʼs Home 1. I trained there and lived there in the 1960s.

Valued for the setting and community. Peaceful, calming, safe haven. Friendship, acceptance, sense of worth, value, help near at hand. Social interaction.

Flora – therapeutic.

Sanctuary – safety for patients. Can step out away from bustle of urban world.

Parks, trees, green space have a calming effect on people.

Some mental health patients will always need the one on one institutional care that has been provided at Riverview. Calm, peaceful, healthy setting. Other uses could be geriatric care for our aging population or treatment centres (long-term) for addicts to the them away from the Downtown East Side. Downtown East Side community problem prove that downsizing was a disastrous failed experiment.

The peaceful settings created under an older model of health care provides a necessary respite from the low-end developments that surround the Riverview Lands.

It was good to see Riverview serving the needs of the mentally ill who suffer from addictions being looked after on the site – it should continue.

Collaborate with Metro Vancouver to restore the link between Riverview and Colony Farm. Then initiate further collaborations with the appropriate health authorities to custom-fit programs towards mental wellness, using for example the fields at Colony Farm for “pastoral therapy.”

Therapeutic art. Art for everybody. Painterʼs paradise.

Therapeutic gardening. Therapeutic farming.

Give those who need it a second chance to live and the care and therapy provided by the buildings and gardens.

Patients felt a great sense of dignity working with the animals and the garden. They had award-winning cattle and vegetables at the PNE and the feeling of pride and workmanship goes a long way in healing your spirit and mental health.

This could be a site for the mental health patients who still need it, assistance for those down and out on the streets, community wellness, healing for all and for teaching and educating everyone about the common misconceptions surrounding mental illness.

Therapeutic gardening here and at Colony Farm. Clients could live at Riverview or in the community and garden at Finnieʼs at Riverview or Colony Farm. Check out Providence Farm outside Duncan on Vancouver Island.

Use this site for what it was intended. Empty the psych wards in general hospitals, empty the prisoners that have special mental needs. Create new spaces for new innovative programs. It is a place of restoration to be kept. Empty Vancouverʼs east side where self-medication prevails.

Hear hear.

Open space is important for the mental wellness of all.

We need both community based services and a comprehensive facility that offers holistic treatment. Not just one without the other.

As a society we need to care fro all people. No one deserves to be abandoned to the streets due to mental health issues. Restore Riverview.

A valuable artifact that needs to remain so others can begin to imagine another awful time that we need to remember. A place that had different rues, different terrifying rules that we need to remember and never forget, never forget.

The demand for places of healing and therapy have not changed. What once was can be again with modern therapies.

I agree.

It is obvious to me as a PoCo resident that the present day model of mental health care (turning them out) is not working. It is not care, it is abandonment by the current provincial government.

The Riverview Hospital will still have medical relevance. We have more and more Alzheimers sufferers. The site is ideal for that use. Post traumatic stress disorder etc.

Finnieʼs garden still doing its job as a wonderful therapeutic escape.

Solace and care, sanctuary and respite. Sanctuary still available there.

It is imperative that this site, designed for the treatment and care of mentally ill patients be retained and developed further for this need in our society in BC. The setting is one of the finest and most beautiful in Canada and people with these difficulties deserve the best.

People with mental disabilities should never be left in prisons, within an environment of people who willfully commit crime, are kept. This is an atrocity that should never have been allowed to happen. People who have schizophrenia and people who have a will to commit crime should never be placed together in the same location. We do it all the time and effects on those with schizophrenia are radically damaged. A proper place for those with schizophrenia is urgently needed. To leave people to survive on the streets in Vancouverʼs downtown and east end is not the answer to these peoplesʼ needs. Why leave these people alone to self-medicate when we have a beautiful site that could be developed further for caring for these people? Group homes are also band-aid places for those with mental issues. They often run away and end up on skid row. The government cost of group homes is enormous. Why? When we already have facilities at Riverview to be developed! The psych wards of our general hospitals are always full. It is only a temporary measure, so why not consolidated our resources at Riverview and take advantage of the beauty of this place for those who can be treated toward wholeness.

Unique in being able to provide the setting for mental illness. To be a place of beauty for those with mental illnesses of many types to be restored if possible, or if long term ailments, kept in beautiful surroundings. It needs to be kept for its original purposes and developed further. Bring in the people off the streets and out of the prisons, to care for them properly at Riverview Lands.

Physical beauty important as a community resource and still as a superior place for treatment and therapy.

Important as having the capacity to meet different institutional needs.

The key role provincially is to return to the original plan for Riverview Lands as a haven and healing place for the mentally ill and incapacitated. To take the vision much farther ahead. Create out of these buildings several “hospitals” each for different special needs. Develop each, one at a time, step by step, and may it become a showcase of how we truly care for people with mental needs.

Airing courts. They were outside areas used for people who needed to be kept in a confined area. West Lawn and East Lawn each had one.

The old buildings are valued. Reinforced concrete has its challenges as well as opportunities for re-use, or at least portions of them.

The original purpose for which Riverview / Colony Farm was developed remains the best – meaningful care in a healthy sustainable setting for the mentally ill, close to nature with inspiring views and impressive buildings and grounds – a campus of care. We should not stray from this vision and purpose but only seek ways to bring tin the community an create a more holistic setting.

Riverview is an integral part of my community. Many happy memories, wandering through the trees and Finnieʼs garden. Where shall I start? Community garden, farmerʼs market, bike route, bed and breakfast, shops, garden (botanical), keep the trees, oasis, love this place!

I believe that it would be a great chance for communal growth through the use of communal gardens. A lot of young generations are growing up without the chance to explore nature in their own back yard, it provides the opportunity to teach the importance of community as well as the outdoors. Give children a place to nurture and call their own and the respect and pride in our city will increase dramatically.

Farm / city balance. A park within a city.

Change to remember past / future and create awareness

Social adaptability – at one time you couldnʼt be married and work in the nurse / training program. Was this discrimination? There was also the change to an eight hour work day from a 12 hour day.

Could become a place like Balboa Park in San Diego.

Multi-use place.

Positive health and wellness, and recreation.

Keep space for the radio club from past and present, to link to future activities.

Public spaces for public needs, like non-profits, etc.

It is possible to adapt while still keeping the spirit of historical uses on site.

Sustainability, often, is not about “re-invention.” Itʼs more often about borrowing from past practices, with essential tweaks along the way. “Adaptability” in this sense may simply be returning full circle.

Why is adaptability equated to more housing? Brandon Mental Health Hospital (Manitoba twin to this site) became a community college. So why not see adaptivity to some such as that? A community college or perhaps a high tech centre or innovation centre. Buildings can be renovated on inside to fit.

Didn’t like the white aprons.

The adaptability of these lands is unimportant. What is important is the retention of this as a park. We will have lots of development and redevelopment all around us. That is where adaptability can take place. We will always need a place where it is clean and green and a place where the song of birds can be heard.

Second paragraph of your synopsis should be highlighted. These activities and community sense canʼt possibly be achieved with a bed here and two beds there provided in hospitals across the province.

People emerged with transferable skills as opposed to not equipped to deal with the real world.

I donʼt think that self-sufficiency means development.

Return to this self-sufficiency. Re-establish the link with Colony Farm. Metro Vancouverʼs sustainability initiatives demand a need to collaborate, to liaise with other agencies and jurisdictions.

Organic quality of the place is valued.

Regular celebration by community of the trees (horticulture culture).

Could be our “Stanley Park.”

Walking on the grounds was medicinal.

Patients donʼt feel they are different from anyone else.

Riverview Lands can continue to serve the community by functioning as a place where arts and theatre, well-being programs could be offered. It could also be open for the public to walk about the grounds, picnic and enjoy family functions.

A culture within a culture. We danced with the patients, it was social and there was companionship. A safe, calm, organized place where everyone was accepted, encouraged and supported.

Protection within a society. Protected from the worst elements of society. Integration with society is possible within a protected site.

People developed self-worth, had responsibility, healthy pursuits, outdoor activities. Good diet, work accomplishment and satisfaction. Integration with the general public. Education regarding mental illness.

The Riverview Lands and buildings house and inspire many community groups. As people live more densely we need these groups to bring us together spiritually. The Lands are idea for building community. Idea – a First Nations learning environment and learning about nature for all ages.

I work in mental health. People used to tell me it helped them to know they could always return to Riverview if they needed a break. The felt welcome and safe, and then they could return to independence. It was not just a hospital and thatʼs what worked and what we no longer have to offer.

A place for hobbies.

Tri-Cities Arts Council – artists!

People learned life skills in the arts, agriculture, ecology and community living.

Protection! Protect the buildings, they are historical in their architecture, style, why the were built. Keep them to preserve the stories that are good and bad. Learn from the past and make the future of all safe, to get well and remain well.

A bus ride through the grounds to and from work, New Westminster to Pitt Meadows. Watched the various Riverview employees getting on and off in different places.

Sustainability, often, is not about “reinvention.”

There seems to be an assumption that no future medical therapy use of the site can be made. I donʼt agree with this perspective.

The Riverview Lands are a unique combination of majestic (and some not so majestic) buildings, as well as an amazing arboretum of trees not commonly found in the urban ladscape. These trees are in exceptionally good health, are “open grown” and serve as a source of beauty and escape from the urban rush. The trees should also be used as an educational resource. If we lose these trees we will never be able to replace them. Many of the buildings have historical significance. We should value our heritage and save Riverview.

Important features include open space, arboretum and historic buildings.

Make Riverview into a national park. B.C. and building a museum and hatchery etc.

Emphasize the historical aspects – tourism, heritage, horticultural.

For the birds, space and thinking.

Keep the Lands for public use. No market housing. Only wealthy people could afford to buy these properties and would build very large houses. This would take away from the views and open space we all enjoy now.

Library of historical knowledge of our local area to educate all in our area and outside to what exists in the gardens and in the buildings. If the local areas need a place, eg. PoCo, for some museum pieces, add to Riverview pieces.

Buildings and arboretum should be designated as a heritage / historic site.

Need the why. Because it is unique.

If we lose these lands now we will never get them back.

Connections to Colony Farm important for historical reasons and the future.

Walking.

Lets be guided on this by the Kwikwetlem First Nations community.

Something different. A change from the standard intersection and strip mall.

All the facilities shut down for the troubled ones in our society. This is the perfect opportunity to care for them again. A place of perfect beauty. No one can deny the psychological effects of nature, beautiful trees and quiet green spaces with heritage value.

Because it is a valuable resource for all.

Think Stanley Park. What a resource that is! No one would think of subdividing it. Preserve for future generations. Once green space is lost it is lost forever.

Because of 100+ years time to create what it is today.

We need the nature that has been greened. Why destroy when you cannot rebuild the gardens. Appreciate what has now matured.

Preserve open spaces. We need more green spaces for healthy living, especially mental health.

Access to natural spaces important for mental health of all. One way to carry on the legacy of history of mental health.

The Lands should primarily focus on the mental and spiritual wellness of the greater community, including, but not limited to, addiction treatment and recovery, short term care facilities for people in crisis, transitional housing, geriatric care, etc. The second focus should be educational.

I agree (4).

Mental health in our province continues to need a comprehensive world class hospital in addition to community based services. Letʼs not lose this opportunity and build on the original idea, not take it apart.

This parcel defines the westernmost parcel of the Coquitlam River watershed, an iconic river whose water supplies most of the drinking water of the lower mainland and is the spiritual homeland of the Kwikwetlem Nation.

The past care of patients is important to families who had family and friends “looked after” here. A sense of community, family, continuity of generations is created by this. The location, buildings, trees are the landmarks that carry that forward. Preserve the memories, do not destroy them. The past is a valuable teaching tool for / gifted to our children. It is a combination of memories, architecture, forest peace, education, wildlife, park land that makes this “saveable.”

Parks Canada must adopt this site.

A site that could put us on the map. What is the world got to know about this place?

Correct the errors for treating mental health in the past and make Riverview a sample of being better. The large area can support the treatment and integration back to people and nature.

Riverview – a gift from past generations to be preserved. Pass it on.

There are so few historical sites like Riverview with dramatic architecture on beautiful grounds to enjoy in BC. It is a treasure to everyone in BC.

The lands must remain in public trust for health care and associated and complementary uses. The tree collection must be managed with care and enhanced. The heritage buildings and campus feel must be retained.

It is “plain view” obvious that this site is a provincial icon and part of this communityʼs identify. Key features: Green, green, green; avian life; heritage buildings.

I have no confidence in the corrupt BC government and their lobbyist cronies. No decisions on this site should be made until we have an elected premier.

The Tri-Cities have a large immigrant / new Canadian population component. What attempt has been made to approach this community for their views on both mental health and the role of nature in sustaining mental health?

Synergy. Keep Riverview intact. It works because it is what it is.

The ecology of the site is the feature of this site and development will break that.

Asking me for a specific feature that is important is a very reductionists approach that fails to capture the true value of the whole of the site.

Letʼs add to, not take way, rebuild in an even better way.

Letʼs have a residential youth addictions treatment centre and a facility for residential school survivors – a healing program permanently funded and run by First Nations.

Think of transportation / transit access for target audiences in the overall plan.

Restoration of the entire site to its former glory.

Which is? Forest? 1930s? 1950s?

The influential role played by John Davidson starting the tree collection, creating an native plant collection at Essondale, work with patients along with his many other contributions to Metro Vancouver. It is a great shame his potting shed was demolished a few years ago. Finnieʼs would be even more fantastic if it was still there.

Habitat ʼ76 revisited.

The whole is greater than the sum of its parts?

The Riverview Lands need to be utilized for cultural and recreational purposes. Could eventually be the crowning focal “ecological site” in the Lower Mainland.