Northern Gateway

Town of Berwick, Nova Scotia

Report prepared by:

Cities & Environment Unit

July 2009
Town of Berwick
Northern Gateway
July 2009

Cities & Environment Unit

Faculty of Architecture & Planning
Dalhousie University
ii
Table of Contents
Foreword v

1. Introduction 1
1.1 Project Context 1
1.2 Scope 2
1.3 Community Engagement 4

2. Context 6
2.1 Background Information 6
2.2 Types of Gateways 16

3. Big Ideas 18

4. Concept Plan: Illustration of Design Elements 20

4.1 Big Picture 20
4.2 Concept Plan 23
4.3 Northern Gateway 26
4.4 Commercial Street 34

5. Recommendations for Implementation 40

5.1 Northern Gateway Elements 41
5.2 Commercial Street 45

Appendices 46
A. Community Workshop Outline 47
B. Youth Project Ideas 49
C. Tree Selection Guidebook 51

iii
 Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway
2
vision

iv
Foreword
The Northern Gateway presents an exciting and important opportunity
for the Town of Berwick to think about the future of the community in
the context of designing a new gateway for the town. As Berwick’s highest
priority of the strategic plan, the proposed “Northern Gateway” is a critical
opportunity to build on Berwick’s strengths, using design elements to
create a memorable and welcoming experience for visitors and residents
alike. While the initial proposal focused on the Northern Gateway area of
town, throughout the project community members also explored how the
gateway connected all parts of the town.

The ideas within this report were germinated at a one-day community

workshop in May 2009 where community members worked together to
articulate Big Ideas about their community and to think creatively about
the design of the gateway. Students at Berwick & District School also
contributed many project ideas to the final report. Cities & Environment
Unit advanced the ideas generated at the community workshop and school
visit and created a proposal that responds to local needs and ideas.

To make this plan a reality, it must be understood that the ideas within
this report will require continued attention and energy of many people.
The ideas must proceed with concerted effort that keeps in mind Berwick’s
long-term vision and captures the collective spirit of the community.

v
1. Introduction
 Introduction

1. Introduction
1.1 Project Context
With a population of 2,454, the Town of Berwick is described as the fastest
growing small town in Nova Scotia. Nestled in the eastern part of the
Annapolis Valley, Berwick has become famous for its agricultural history,
particularly the apple industry, and is known as the Apple Capital of Nova
Scotia. However, Berwick offers more than just a rich agricultural history.
A vibrant industrial base, varied employment opportunities, proximity to
major employment centres, an environmentally friendly image and quality
of life factors place the Town in a unique and advantageous position for

2
both attraction and retention of residents and tourists. Despite all these
strengths, first impressions and last impressions of the Town count.

The proposed “Northern Gateway” is a critical opportunity to build on

Berwick’s strengths, by using design elements to create a memorable and
welcoming experience for visitors and residents alike.

Small towns and villages across Nova Scotia have seen significant changes
over the last fifty years. The main connections and lifelines of these
communities used to be local main streets; it seems the markers of these
have now moved away from their main streets and toward the highway
system. The new “face” for many towns is the image that they portray and
visibility they have from along the highway. Berwick like many small towns
in the province needs to find a way to have a real face, both within town
boundaries as well as from the main highways. A gateway for Berwick
is more than just an entry into Town: it defines and celebrates what the
community is about - shows who you are, and understands what it means
to arrive home.

Together, the gateway design elements symbolize and embody what the
Town of Berwick is about. The public environment is like a well-designed
choreography: each element, each feature is a sign and an indication of
what matters in the Town. The lighting, paving patterns, greenery, open
spaces and directional signs together symbolize a real place, with authentic
history and many wonderful surprises to discover.

Like many small towns in Nova Scotia, Berwick is faced with fiscal
restraints and limited funds, therefore, design elements should build on and
connect to existing infrastructure and must be compatible and sustainable

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 Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

within the scale, time frame and financial realities of a small town. While
some projects may seem ambitious, each one represents an opportunity
and an attitude that favours and highlights local talents, resources and
materials. Each initiative must be fueled by the people of Berwick, and be
something residents can feel proud of. The concept plan illustrates what
the community wants to achieve overall, and provides both the inspiration
and a framework to take specific actions to define and reinforce the Town’s
identity and image.

While this project centres on the Northern Gateway, the approach is

inclusive and comprehensive. Considerations include the larger context
2

of existing strategic and economic development plans, assets beyond the

Gateway and longer-term possibilities for the Town of Berwick.
vision

This project provides both a broad intention for the Town that captures
local aspirations, and also a conceptual plan that includes specific
infrastructure, projects and policies to guide local action. The first steps
taken in building the Gateway will set the stage for future action, and make
a difference on the ground.

1.2 Scope
At every scale and in every context, Cities & Environment Unit’s work
is always community-based, comprehensive and action-oriented. Our
approach centers on a philosophy that encourages extensive community
involvement throughout the development and implementation of any
plan or project. Our approach ensures that community members and
stakeholders are fully aware of the planning process and have avenues for
meaningful participation.

A comprehensive view is also fundamental to our approach. The plan that

has been developed is holistic in that it considers physical aspects such
as trails, parks and infrastructure, while also incorporating recreational
opportunities, economic growth, social and cultural development
and environmental management. The development of urban design
interventions will act as a vehicle to integrate all these elements to inspire
and direct action that is driven by a shared vision.

Our approach is action-oriented. The ideas and priorities developed and

identified through community consultation are translated into tangible,
strategic goals and include concrete and specific action necessary to

2
 Introduction

achieve them. An appropriate, locally based strategy contained within the

plan ensures that the ideas can be implemented in a way that reflects the
values of community members.

Goals and ideas reflected in the plan are developed in the spirit of getting
the most benefit out of every action and initiative, maximizing limited
resources and increasing local and municipal benefits in terms of skill
development, programming and employment.

The scope of work for the Northern Gateway Project includes consideration
for and development of the following elements:

2
• A concept for enhancing the bridge as the entrance to Berwick
• Beautification ideas for the approach ramp areas along Highway 101
• The design of a passive park on the east side of Commercial Street
• The design of a significant landmark structure at the entry to Town
• A sidewalk design on the east side of Commercial Street
• Recommendations for redesign/relocation of the Town map and signs
• An integrated trail system from the west side of Commercial Street

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 Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

1.3 Community Engagement

The following outlines the approaches used to ensure community input in
the development and refinement of ideas for the Northern Gateway.

Project Initiation Meeting (March 30, 2009)

The project began with an initial meeting with CEU and representatives
from the Town of Berwick. In addition to bringing all project team members
to the table to discuss the overall objectives and outcomes of the design
project, this meeting determined a detailed project schedule, identified
people who should be involved and discussed the community charrette.
This visit to Berwick also provided an opportunity to conduct site research
2

and gather maps and background information about the area.

Community Workshop (Saturday May 2, 2009)

vision

In order to create excitement and energy within the community, the core
of this project was an intensive design charrette that the entire community
was invited to participate in. This one-day event focused on two broad
sessions: concept designs for this part of the Town, and specific design
ideas that put these concepts into action.

The broader concept design ideas stimulated discussion on the current and
future potential of this part of Berwick, and considered aspects including
built and natural heritage, open spaces, parking, pedestrian movement,
transportation and business development. At the very local level, the
charrette also tested these concept designs to come up with public realm
improvements and detailed designs. This work was also explored through
the construction of a block model of the street and through sketches and
drawings of possible designs. Examples and case studies from other places
were also presented to participants to inspire new ideas and consider what
might be possible in Berwick.

4
 Introduction

Ideas Sessions at Berwick & District School (June 3, 2009) A list of project ideas developed by
Prior to the Community Open House, the CEU team met with all of the the students at the school is included
students to share the initial proposals for the Gateway, obtain feedback and in Appendix B. These ideas serve as
inspiration for future projects. While
generate discussion on what is special in Berwick. These creative sessions many lie beyond the scope of the
informed and reinforced many of the design decisions being made. In Northern Gateway, the young people
addition, students were asked to share ideas for projects and initiatives that of Berwick have identified a number
would build on the Big Ideas and make Berwick an even better Town to of exciting ideas that could make a
difference in local quality of life. The Town
live in. Many of their project ideas are included in the proposals for the should encourage youth involvement in
Gateway and beyond. planning and implementation of projects
in Berwick.

2
Community Open House (June 3, 2009)
The open house was an opportunity to obtain approval for the conceptual
outline and a shared commitment to move forward on the design ideas,
possibilities and recommendations. The final products are presented in an
accessible, visible and easy to understand way and provide a clear direction
for the project.

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2. Context
 Context

2. Context
2.1 Background Information

Town Facts
Incorporated: 1923
Population (2006): 2454
Median income (2006): $44,272
Unemployment rate: (2006): 9.5%
Source: Statistics Canada, 2006
Source: Statistics Canada, 2006

Employment by Industry (2006)

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006

Source: Statistics Canada, 2006 Source: Statistics Canada, 2006

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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Community Organizations
• Annapolis Valley Reg. Library, Berwick Branch
• Apple Capital Museum Society
• Annapolis Valley Lake & Ridge Runners
• Berwick & District Central Kings Crusaders
• Berwick & District Senior Citizen’s Centre
• Berwick Fire Department
• Berwick & District Fire Dept. Ladies Auxiliary
• Berwick & District Community Association
• Berwick & District Lions Club
• Berwick Gala Days
• Berwick Lionettes
• Berwick Diabetes Support Group
• Berwick RCMP
• Berwick Block Parent Association
• Berwick Food Bank
• Brownies / Guides
• Burlington Women’s Institute
• Children’s Wish Foundation
• Citizen’s Advocacy
• Eastern Star Laurel Chapter 67
• Kings County Neighbourhood Watch
• Kings Reg. Rehab. Ctr./Apple Tree Foundation
• Ladies Aux. Ortona Branch #69
• Masonic Lodge
• Moms & Tots Group
• Royal Canadian Legion, Ortona Branch #69
• Sharon Club
• South Berwick Women’s Institue
• Valley Hospice Foundation
• Valley Lodge No. 90
• Valley Search and Rescue
• Venturers
• Victorian Order of Nurses, Annapolis Valley
• Western Kings 4-H Club
• Western Kings Memorial Health Centre
• Western Nova Scotia Draft Horse Association

Source: Town of Berwick

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 Context

Berwick’s Energy Future

Berwick is one of only six communities in Nova Scotia that owns its own
electric utility, which was started in 2006.

Aimed at establishing Berwick as a provincial leader in energy generation

and management.

Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by engaging entire

community.

Berwick Energy Future and Green Municipal Fund Projects:

• Green Municipal Fund
• Berwick Energy Fair
• District Energy – Anaerobic Digestion & Thermal Utility
• Berwick Town Hall & New Fire Hall
• Demand Side Management (DSM)
• Energy Monitoring Program
• Berwick Agriculture-Energy Centre (BAEC)

Source: Town of Berwick

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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Regional Context
Agriculture & Land Use

Wetlands Roads Forests Built-up Areas Open Spaces Town Boundary Agricultural Lands

10
 Context

Regional Context Kings Transit Map

Transportation & Transit

Berwick Regional Transportation Map

(Not to Scale)

Source: Kings Transit

Detail: Berwick Region
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11
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Town Context

12
 Context

Town Context

13
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Town Context

14
 Context

Town Context

15
 Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

2.2 Types of Gateways

Architectural

Kearney, Nebraska Quebec City, Quebec Berlin, Germany

Symbolic

Gaffney, South Carolina Squamish, British Columbia Nackawic, New Brunswick

Landscape

Sequoia Naional Park, California Tuscany, Italy Little Italy, Montreal, Quebec
16
 Context

Landmark
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario Cawker City, Iowa Antrim, Ireland

Signage
Estes Park, Colorado North Bay, Ontario Barrie, Ontario

17
3. Big Ideas
 Big Ideas

3. Big Ideas
The Big Ideas for Berwick are intended to provoke people’s imagination
and passion. They represent shared priorities and capture the identity
of the Town, both of which will guide decisions and action related to
improvements in Berwick, starting with the Northern Gateway.

Tell Berwick’s story.

The Town has a lot of history that is often hidden and unknown by many. It
has a history of apple shipping and was once the most industrialized town
in Canada. This also relates to events, celebrations and accomplishments,
including many “firsts” and “bests”, such as the first hospital in the Annapolis
Valley and the birthplace of Acadia University. Berwick is a hard-working
town where real things happen; it is both humble and authentic.

Support Berwick as an active community with many

recreation opportunities.
The local facilities are an attraction and great recreation programs exist.
Berwick will promote the Cornwallis River and adjacent park s for recreation
as well as conservation. Recreation brings and holds the community
together, and also presents economic development opportunities.

Build on Berwick’s agricultural context.

Berwick has a strong agricultural history, which connects to the
community’s current condition, including extensive agricultural lands, as
well as associated industries and warehouses. Berwick has an opportunity
to embrace the local food movement and pesticide free agriculture.

Extend Berwick’s innovative, green ideas.

The Town’s own electric company, Berwick Electric, can become a model
for local and innovative approaches to energy production and distribution.
Many other new and innovative ideas exist that Berwick can explore
(Berwick can be awireless community, and a green community).

Celebrate and protect Berwick’s natural environment.

Berwick is situated among many beautiful rivers, lakes, trees, wetlands and
marshes. As a Town, Berwick will protect, preserve, celebrate and restore
its natural areas.

19
4. Concept Plan
 Concept Plan

4. Concept Plan
4.1 The Big Picture
The Gateway is a starting point or “seed” for the Town. Through design
sessions and discussions with community members, several key elements
came together in a the shape of an apple, which seems appropriate for the
Apple Capital. The core or spine is Commercial Street. A trail network
encircles the core area, symbolized by the peel of the apple. The main
entrance, framed by the passive park and entry garden, as well as the subtle
changes in the landscape on the Town side of Highway 101, come together
to form the stem.

Encircling the Town is a connected, multi-purpose trail system. By

the river’s edge, it offers a leisurely walk through a relatively untouched
natural area, with a viewing platform: elevated boardwalk through flood-
prone or sensitive areas; and pathways for casual hikes, bike rides and
family excursions. The trail will link into existing and potential future
connections, open spaces and parks, providing safe ways to travel around
and within the community. The walkway is completed with improved
sidewalk connections all the way from the bridge at the north end of Town
to the TransCanada Trail in the south.

The plan on the next page shows how the trail, open spaces, series of
gardens and important institutions connect. The plan illustrates the entire
Town of Berwick, beyond the study area, which is important to consider
when defining, enhancing and celebrating the Town’s identity. The gateway
represents an attitude and a series of ambitions for the Town of Berwick,
not simply an entranceway or a sign. The gateway and spirit of the town
can be seen and discovered throughout Berwick, along its trail network,
down the main street, in the rhythm and design of gardens and trees.

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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Integrated Trail Network

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 Concept Plan

4.2 Concept Plan

You start to see signs of Berwick as you approach on the highway. Places
that people remember from their travels along the highway are those where
you can catch a glimpse of where people live. As you travel through the
valley, you are greeted with long views of the landscape: fields, farmhouses,
the valley and the hills, with a rhythmic placement of towns along the
way. Along this particular stretch of highway there is little sense of the
natural landscape and openness. Cleaning up the landscape adjacent to
the highway will help people notice Berwick and provide a glimpse into
the town, showcasing lush gardens and orchards that invite you in to what
you already can imagine is a special place that people care about. You also
notice some more obvious signs, such as an observation tower and wind
turbine, together indicating that a significant, progressive town is close by.

The concept plan for Berwick’s Northern Gateway includes a number

of repeated and consistent elements, including landscaping, a series of
gardens, a canopy of street trees and pedestrian-scaled lighting. These
elements combine to create a welcoming and processional feel as you move
down Commercial Street.

Highway Beautification
The beautification along the highway is simple and low maintenance. As
a starting point, a semi-annual cleanup will improve the visual appeal of
the exit. Sumac trees could be planted adjacent to the road as they are a
salt tolerant species, with attractive foliage and of an appropriate height to
maintain safety and views along the edge of the road. The Town could also
plant flowers in the “triangles” between Highway 101 and the on-ramp.

At the edge of the overpass there is a continuation of the lighting proposed

for the bridge, giving an indication not only that a Town is nearby, but also
that this is a special place with particular qualities. These subtle elements
provide a glimpse into Berwick for passersby and entice them to stop and
take some time to explore the Gateway.

Series of Gardens
A number of gardens along the spine provide opportunities to learn about
Berwick, to take a break, to stretch your legs or simply to enjoy the day.
These gardens recognize and celebrate the Town’s agricultural past, as well
create important institutional meeting and gathering places. They also Series of Gardens
Parks / Open Spaces
welcome residents and visitors into the “front yard” of the community; the Continuous Street Trees, Lighting
gardens stir the imagination and provide places to recharge your batteries. and Sidewalks
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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway
See tree selection guides (Appendix C)
for recommended tree types for:
• Street Trees (Commercial Street)
• Parks and gardens
• Wetland areas (Gateway Park)
• Orchard (Entry Garden)
24
Tree-Lined Streets
Building on existing trees found in the residential areas of Berwick, this
plan extends trees along Commercial Street. Through the residential part
of the street (from Main Street to Cottage Street) trees are added between
the sidewalk and front yards, providing a more continuous streetscape. The
trees part at important institutions, such as churches and Town Hall, to
mark the entrances. In the commercial core (from Cottage Street to South
Street) the trees move closer to the street (at the edge of the sidewalk)
providing a comfortable walking environment for pedestrians, as well as a
signal that you have entered a different part of Town.
Lighting
Lighting is an important element of the gateway design. It highlights bright
spots in the community: the bridge, important intersections, institutions,
gardens and the commercial core. In the retail heart of Berwick, new
lighting features are inspired by the style of existing lighting. Throughout
the rest of the Town, lighting elements are developed at an appropriate scale
for the spaces they frame or the pathways they illuminate, representing the
quality of the Town as well as creating continuity through their rhythm and
strategic placement.
Signage
The new signage strategy embraces a less is more philosophy. “Signs”
about the Town’s presence, identity and activities are subtle: changes in the
landscape, creation of gardens, a canopy of trees. Signs are also symbolic:
a wind turbine visible from the highway, an observation tower to overlook
the valley.
Berwick should take advantage of the opportunity to design a new sign
along Highway 101 that is truly reflective of Berwick’s identity.
Smaller Blocks
New connections through the middle of large blocks provide more obvious
connections between homes, recreational facilities and the commercial core.
In addition, these new pathways provide opportunities to accommodate
growth in Berwick while preserving the characteristics that make it a
community with enviable quality of life.
 Concept Plan

Northern Gateway Cross-Sections

1 Bridge (looking east)

All other cross sections in this plan are looking

toward the south, as you travel through town
encountering the various elements that
comprise the Gateway:

2 Earthworks walls

3 Entry Garden & Observation Tower

4 Hotel

5 Residential Infill

Commercial Street Cross-Sections

6 Civic Garden & Farmer’s Market

7 Commercial Plaza

Site Plan Legend (Proposed Improvements)

Street trees

Vegetation

New buildings

Lighting

Sidewalks

Trails

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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway
Northern Gateway Design Elements:
• Bridge
• Gateway Park
• Entry Garden (Orchard)
• Observation Tower & Visitor Centre
• Town Sign & Median
• Hotel & Residential Infill
26
4.3 Northern Gateway: Elements
Bridge
The bridge forms a solid, substantial entrance. Proposed bridge
enhancements will make this a much more formal entry point into the
Town. Replacement of the bridge in the middle to long-term will likely be
necessary. This provides an opportunity to create a significant and striking
new bridge, one that symbolizes the Town’s ambitions and evokes a sense
of permanence.
The bridge provides an important first impression of the Gateway and Town.
 Concept Plan

Solid materials such as stone, extending from the earthwork retaining

walls in Gateway Park, provide permanence and structure. The bridge is
the first point of entry into the community and should embody the strong,
rooted and progressive community that lies beyond its span. The way it is
built, the materials used, the feeling you get as you walk, bicycle or drive
across, portray an image and set the tone for a continuum of improvements
proposed for the rest of the Town.

View of the bridge as it is today.

The Gateway: a new bridge, wind turbine, Observation Tower and a town sign and median mark the entry into Berwick.
27
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

The illustrations below illustrate how these stone walls connect with the
landscape and the earthworks features in Gateway Park on the south side of
the Cornwallis River. Starting the wall on the bridge approach increases the
appearance of length and makes it possible for the bridge bear the weight
of the stone elements. The bridge becomes a more significant entrance to
town. The construction of a new bridge also enables the Town to improve
the pedestrian walkway, providing a safe and seamless extension of the new
sidewalk that runs along the east side of Commercial Street.

Solid stone walls and new lighting create an inviting and stately entrance into Town.

Cross-section of the bridge, showing the solid stone walls, viewed from Entry Garden.near the Observation Tower.
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 Concept Plan

Gateway Park
The land between the Cornwallis River and the highway on-ramp is
primarily a wetland area. The focus for this part of the Town and Gateway
includes restoration and remediation of the wetland habitat. It is an area
for conservation as well as education. Improvements will be made to clean
up the area, to reintroduce native wetland species as well as to maintain the
integrity of the riverbanks.

The prominence of this entryway is reinforced and balanced by Gateway

Park, a new passive park, featuring a wind turbine, earthwork structures to Partnerships with organizations such
as the Friends of the Cornwallis River,
moderate flooding and seating areas) will be located north of the fire hall. Clean Annapolis River Project and Ducks
Unlimited will promote conservation and
rehabilitation along the river.

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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Gateway Park and the entire riverfront area serve as a reminder that the local
landscape has sustained and continues to benefit people in the Annapolis
Valley and in particular the Town of Berwick. Substantial stone walls are
used as a way to control and moderate water flow in the low-lying areas
of the park, embracing natural hydrologic patterns while also providing
variations in the park landscape during different seasons. At times, the
lower areas or terraces may be flooded, while upper levels are kept dry by
the retaining walls. During the spring floods, water may overtake several
of the walls and approach the edge of the park. These walls not only create
a dynamic and functional park space but also provide an edge between the
park and the fire hall parking area. The walls will be of significant height
and width to accommodate seating and provide interaction with the park.

Earthworks (stone walls) extend from the bridge into the landcape of Gateway Park.

The park is also the start of the integrated trail system. In some places where
flooding occurs or where sensitive wetland habitat exists, a boardwalk
should be constructed. This boardwalk crosses the river, providing two
pedestrian bridges and platforms where people can observe the natural
landscape and river around them. Further connections to a broader
regional trail network could also be developed.

30
 Concept Plan

Entry Garden
A series of gardens along Commercial Street provide continuity, places to
rest and locations to discover the varied offerings of the Town of Berwick.
Entry Garden features an orchard that celebrates Berwick’s apple history,
and provides the setting for an inviting Visitor Centre, housed in the base of
a simple Observation Tower. The tower belongs to everyone. For visitors, it
provides an overview of the incredible landscape, the historic connections
throughout the Valley. For residents, the tower is a beacon, which fosters
reflection on Berwick’s situation, its industrial heritage, its environmental
consciousness, its apple history and its roots. The views from the tower
allow people to see the landscape as a whole. From the highway, glimpses
of the Tower provide signs of settlement, inviting people to take a look at
what Berwick has to offer.

Given Berwick’s focus on innovation and the environment, the tower could The Tower is “worth the climb”. Many
serve as a symbol for the Town of its larger environmental attitude and entrepreneurial opportunities exist, such
responsibility. It will house a monitoring station and act as a barometer of as a pie shop that sells the best apple
pie in the valley. Youth groups could take
the environmental progress the Town is making towards goals of carbon this on and organize tours and events to
neutrality and improved air and water quality In this sense, Berwick will be share Berwick’s story with visitors and
a model for other communities. school groups.

Entry Garden includes an Observation Tower & Visitor Centre, as well as small kiosks for bicycle rentals and other businesses.
The orchard provides opportunities to learn about native apple varieties, as well as a beautiful place to relax.

31
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

The Visitor Centre provides essential welcome features, such as visitor

information, maps and washrooms Adjacent to the centre you could
imagine businesses and services developing, such as a bicycle rental facility,
where residents and visitors could pick up a bicycle to enjoy the trail system
or travel from one end of Town to the other.

The Town map will be relocated to the Visitor Centre; it may include
illustrations of the continuous Gateway elements found throughout the
Town, in particular the trails, gardens and important sites. A second
map should be created for the Southern Gateway, as this is an important
historical entrance into Berwick and should communicate the same story
about the Town and its ambitions.

Town Sign & Median

At the entrance into town, a bold tree-lined median subtly yet clearly
changes your pace, creating a more leisurely promenade. The trees form an
intimate canopy that welcomes both residents arriving home and visitors
exploring Berwick.

The road on either side of the median is four metres wide, a width generous
enough for combined bicycle and vehicular traffic. Including the sidewalk,
there is sufficient clearance for occasional passage of wider vehicles,
including farm equipment, which is an important consideration given the
agricultural history and contemporary context of the Town. To enhance
the quality and integrity of the entrance, alternate routing for trucks and
farm machinery should be provided or enhanced.

The median’s placement respects and accommodates the fire hall, providing
a break to allow for the passage of emergency vehicles entering and exiting
the bays.

The ten-metre wide median provides space for street trees along its edges,
and landscaped green space in the centre. A new town sign is placed at
the front of this median in a prominent position at the entry point and
start of the improved streetscape. This decorative landmark structure at
the entrance to Berwick is an appropriate investment of the D250 Legacy
funding that has been secured.

32
 Concept Plan

Hotel & Residential Infill

To enhance the Northern Gateway it is important to provide both a
destination and a great place to visit or live. A new hotel will create a home
base for visitors who want to explore all that the Town has to offer. With
the completion of the Apple Dome, Berwick will be an attractive location
for sports tournaments and events. Intensifying the residential options
near Commercial Street and Main Street will bring more people to the area
during the day and evening.

The hotel is connected to a network of sidewalks and trails, providing a great

departure point for exploring the Town. The hotel showcases innovative
environmental features: a green roof, rain water capture and a greenhouse.

Townhouses complete the streetscape along Commercial Street as you approach

Main Street. Front porches and rooftop decks promote interaction with neighbours
and visitors.

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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway
Commercial Street Design Elements:
• Buildings closer to the street
• Civic Garden & Farmer’s Market
• Commercial Street Plaza
• Bookend Garden
• Shared parking lots
34
4.4 Commercial Street: Elements
Along the residential section of Commercial Street, the existing canopy
of large trees is repaired and enhanced through the addition of numerous
street trees. The continuity of street trees, as well as the placement of
pedestrian lighting, guides you along the street into the commercial
core. Trees are placed between the roadway and the sidewalk, following
the cue of existing street lighting. The trees provide shade and protection
for pedestrians, and create a comfortable environment in front of local
businesses, including places for sidewalk cafes, gardens and rest areas. The
street trees also provide opportunities to celebrate and build on Berwick’s
agricultural history. This important identity will be enhanced by planting
edible landscape features along streets and in parks and gardens throughout
the town, fostering urban forestry and agriculture.
As you enter the commercial core of Berwick, you realize that you have
arrived in the centre of commercial and social activity. By placing the
buildings closer to the street in the commercial core of Berwick, a vibrant
atmosphere is created, increasing opportunities for interaction between
merchants and customers. To maintain and enhance the character of
Berwick’s main street, it is important to keep the existing buildings and
also to anticipate more. By including appropriately scaled infill buildings
along the main retail section of Commercial Street, the Town will enhance
the vibrant yet relaxed feel of the area. New businesses can occupy these
spaces. Patios and sidewalk cafés can extend into open spaces and spill
onto the street. Creating a complete streetscape will set the tone for new
development, reinforce the Town’s identity and charm, and create a unique
experience for shopping, dining and social interaction.
 Concept Plan

Civic Garden & Farmer’s Market

One of the many gardens along Commercial Street, the Civic Garden
provides opportunities to learn more about the Town through interpretive
elements and sensitive landscaping. This improved public space sets the
stage for a variety of activities, such as the local farmer’s market, community
events and pure enjoyment in the civic heart of Berwick. The paved area in
front of the library is replaced with a garden including benches, vegetation
and a fountain to create a space that people want to spend time in.

View of Town Hall before improvements.

An improved Civic Garden includes a paved pedestrian promenade leading toward Town Hall, a park and fountain in front of
the library, and enhanced gardens and pathways through Lion’s Park.

35
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

This important area adjacent to Town Hall and Berwick’s Civic Centre is
the location of a new weekly Farmer’s Market. The parking lot behind the
Civic Garden will be modified to include structures that allow for market
stalls and tents to be installed easily. Parking lots are seen as multi-use
spaces where both organized and spontaneous activities can take place.

Cross-section through the skate park, Farmer’s Market (which doubles as a parking lot the rest of the week) and the Civic
Garden adjacent to Town Hall. The “Big Apple” has become an important landmark and will stay in its current location.

36
 Concept Plan

Commercial Street Plaza

Large, street-facing parking lots will be replaced with shared parking
areas, behind commercial buildings along the street. In some places, new
buildings will be built to complete the streetscape, bringing shops and
activity to the edge of the sidewalk. The expansive parking area in front of
Price Chopper and Bargain Harley’s will transform into Commercial Street
Plaza. Features such as paving and lighting create an open plaza that people
can cross to gain access to the shops behind, or simply spend some time in.
Planters provide greenery as well as seating areas. A gazebo offers an ideal
setting for concerts and performances.

Current streetscape and vast parking lot in front of local institutions Bargain Harley’s and the Price Chopper.

A wonderful plaza will be created to enhance the streetscape along Commercial Street. Access to existing businesses is
maintained and enhanced, while new buildings complete the street and encourage new businesses to locate here.
37
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Cross-section looking south along Commercial Street. The plaza in front of Bargain
Harley’s and Price Chopper includes gardens, seatins areas and a gazebo for
performances.

New buildings, awnings, street trees and lighting provide a continuous streetscape
along Commercial Street. Street-facing parking lots shift behond the buildings.
38
 Concept Plan

Shared Parking Lots

The current patchwork of street-front asphalt lots encourages people to
drive, to stop at one destination, and keep on going. The proposal for
Commercial Street reorganizes and improves the parking areas, while
maintaining the same number of available parking spaces. On-street
parking will continue to provide a stopping place for short-term visitors
to the street. A new series of shared parking lots, conveniently located to
service existing and new businesses, connects seamlessly with the street
and neighbouring recreational facilities.

Shifting the parking to the back of shops, behind the street-front activities,
encourages people to slow down, spend some time perusing the shops
and restaurants, taking the time to enjoy the many wonderful offerings
in Berwick. The Town through its design and policies is making a clear
statement that it does not want its retail core to become an indistinct strip
of parking lots, strip malls and big-box outlets.

Bookend Garden
At the southern end of Commercial Street, a garden provides a bookend
to the Northern Gateway and continuous street improvements along the
main street. This garden is located at the head of the TransCanada Trail.

39
5. Recommendations
 Implementation

5. Recommendations
The recommended implementation strategy is primarily project-based. The
components of the Northern Gateway design as well as the proposals for
Commercial Street constitute a framework for local improvement projects.
Each project is an opportunity to enhance and celebrate Berwick’s identity,
creating memorable first and last impressions for visitors and residents
alike. As the first few actions are undertaken, the Gateway will take shape,
and new possibilities and ideas will emerge.

Each proposal and project embrace an attitude of getting the most benefit
from the least efforts – an “economy of means” approach – enabling the
Town to achieve the best return on even the smallest investment. These
projects will not happen all at once; the first few steps taken must set the
tone for future initiatives. Each project advances the collective vision
for Berwick, and can be realized with a sense of purpose and a creative,
inventive approach.

5.1 Northern Gateway Elements

The Northern Gateway concept design includes a number of elements:
highway beautification, bridge reconstruction, wetland remediation,
Gateway Park, the start of a trail system, a new Town sign, tree-lined median,
new lighting, an Entry Garden with an orchard, Observation Tower and
Visitor Centre. Creating a welcoming gateway into Berwick represents a
bold and long-term commitment to action and ongoing improvements.

The key elements that make up the Northern Gateway are presented in the
following section in a reasonable sequence for implementation. Each step
celebrates the Big Ideas, enhances Berwick’s identity and requires continual
investment into the Town’s infrastructure and amenities.

The cost estimates provided are general. Berwick has the opportunity to
invent new approaches that maximize local benefits, through creative
approaches to project development and implementation, including the
involvement of community groups and local human resources. Each step
taken is worth the effort and expense as it will make the Town a better place
to live, to visit and to do business - creating opportunities today and into
the future.

41
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Recommended Actions and Sequencing of Gateway Elements

ELEMENT IMMEDIATE TERM SHORT TERM MEDIUM TERM LONG TERM

Bridge Construction & Prepare application Install of lights at Extend stone walls to Build new bridge
Highway Beautification for funding for either side of bridge either side of bridge
new bridge Install of overpass
Plant and take care of lighting
highway “triangles”
Gateway Park Start grading Complete Begin boardwalk Complete trail system
Gateway Park construction of construction
stone walls
Install concrete Construct gazebo
pavers around base Install seating,
of wind turbine benches and signage
Build first stone Begin construction
wall: alongside fire of trail system
station parking
Landscape
wetland area,
clear and remove
invasive species
Entry Garden Begin negotiation to Initiate landscaping Build bike rental Build Observation
acquire land for Entry kiosk, launch new Tower and
Plant orchard
Garden and Tower tourism initiative/ Visitor Centre
Relocate Town Map business
to future site of
Design Observation
Observation Tower
Tower and
and Visitor Centre
Visitor Centre
Sign & Median Commission Begin tree planting Install lighting Extend trees
Town Sign along east side of along median and and lighting to
Commercial St. Commercial St. commercial core
Create median
with tree planting
Install Town Sign

42

Bridge Construction & Highway Beautification
Highway clean-up (maintenance and planting) $3,000
Lighting at bridge $5,000
Bridge $500,000-1,000,000
Gateway Park
Concrete pavers around wind turbine base $6,000-7,000 new Town Sign.
First stone wall $7,000-8,000
Entry Garden
Orchard $10,000
Relocate Town Map $500
Bike rental kiosk $1,000-3,000
Observation Tower $300,000
Town Sign and Median
Town Sign (D250 funding) $4,000-6,000
Tree-lined median, road and sidewalk $100,000
Implementation
Some creative implementation ideas
Signage
While a conceptual design for a new
town sign (located at the start of the
median) is proposed, there are many
local artists and professionals who
should be engaged in developing the
Street Trees
The Town could organize a tree-
purchasing program, whereby residents
could acquire and plant appropriate
species of street trees. This sort of
program would determine which trees
will work best along local streets, using
the Tree Selection Guidebook (Appendix
C) as a guide. It will also secure funds
for long-term maintenance and upkeep,
and provide incentives to complete the
streetscape. A community greenhouse
/ arboretum could be established to
support the tree planning and gardening
projects. In addition, the trees could
further articulate Berwick’s story,
commemorating important people,
43
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway

Estimated Costs

ITEM ESTIMATED COST PER UNIT COMMENTS

Asphalt paving $1.50/sq.ft
Curb/gutter $3.00/ln.ft - $25/ln.sq.ft.
Wetland Board walk $50/sq.ft
Lighting $900-$1,500 each Pole and fixtures
Kiosk (small gazebo) $1,500-$3,000 each
Street Tree $405 each Base cost X 3 (convention)
($135 before multiplication)
Sod (landscaping) $5.00/sq.ft.
Seeding/mulching $1,600/acre
Clearing/grubbing $2,000/acre
Benches $400-$700 each
Trash cans $350 each Metal/concrete base
Pedestrian/cycle bridges $100/sq.ft
Trail $1.00 sq.ft Asphalt
$1.40/sq.ft Hard-packed surface
$.40/sq.ft Granular surfacing
$0.40/sq.ft Wood chips
$2.25/ sq.ft Concrete
$0.40/sq. ft Granular sub-base
$3,000/mile Grading for hard surface
$2,000/mile Grading for natural surface
10% of trail cost Other (drainage, signage,
support services)
Concrete sidewalk $2.22- $3.33/sq.ft.
Concrete pavers $2.00-5.00/sq.ft
Earth retaining structure $495/sq.yd.
Masonry block wall $308/m2
Bridge (structure) $1,300/sq.ft Concrete
Bridge footings (road) $700/m 3

44
 Implementation

5.2 Commercial Street

Beyond the Northern Gateway, further action will extend these
improvements throughout town. The Big Ideas will guide development
and decision making along Commercial Street.

Recommendations:

Conduct a complete survey of the Town to develop up-to-date base maps

and a plan for the Town of Berwick. More detailed maps will be essential
to understand the local landscape and topography. This will be particularly
useful for wetland areas, grading and earthworks structures in Gateway
Park, as well as for future planning and design projects.

Develop an overall design Plan for Berwick, with particular emphasis on

Commercial Street. The concept plan for the Northern Gateway includes
some ideas for Commercial Street. A community-based planning process
should be undertaken to develop more detailed designs, policies and
guidelines for the street, and other areas of Town.

Initiate a Southern Gateway design project to determine improvements for

the other entry point into Berwick.

Provide opportunities for ongoing community engagement in

implementation of projects, both as part of the Northern Gateway initiative
and beyond. Focus on using and developing local materials, skills and
human resources in every project undertaken.

Enhance and update the Town’s signage policy. Currently the Land Use By-
Law requires a permit for all signs. It restricts signs to specific areas of Town,
and also controls the size, location and number of signs. This includes both
freestanding signs and those attached to buildings. A consistent approach
to town signs will enhance Berwick’s identity and reduce clutter.

Develop a long-term wetland management plan. Beyond the removal of

invasive species and introduction of native species into wetland areas, the
plan will outline specific maintenance and management practices that
should occur in an ongoing way.

45
 APPENDICES SECTION TITLE PAGE
FULL BLEED B&W VERSION OF THE PHO-
TO GOES HERE ON LAYER 1

Appendices
Appendix A
Community Workshop Outline
May 2, 2009

OUTLINE OF THE DAY

8:00-9:00 CEU set up room, panels, model, etc.
9:00-10:00 Review background panels, grab a coffee, etc.
10:00-10:30 Introductions / welcome / opening comments
10:30-12:00 Big Ideas (break into 6-8 smaller groups)
12:00-1:00 Working lunch (consolidate Big Ideas)
1:00-2:30 Design session for Gateway (6-8 smaller groups)
2:30-3:00 Group wrap up (around the model, consolidate some design ideas, etc.)
3:00-4:00 Advance the design (consolidate and illustrate design ideas further as a group)

YOUTH ACTIVITIES (ALL DAY)

Memory mapping
Draw something they love about Berwick
Mayor for a day (what would you do?) Future
Drawing the Big Ideas - putting ideas on the street (large map of entire study area)

DETAILED OUTLINE:
10:00-10:30 Introductions / welcome / opening comments
Invite Mayor / Bob Ashley to make some opening comments
Set the tone for the day (CEU / FP)
Describe intentions of Gateway project and introduce our team
Why is this project happening?
What is the project about? What are the outcomes?
Talk about a gateway as the symbol of the identity of Berwick (an attitude about getting to and
leaving town, experience while in the town, connections between the various design elements
and features comprising this project).
Overview of community workshop – opportunity to get creative and shape the future of Berwick
What we hope to get out of today’s workshop (talk a bit about format of the day, spirit of the
exercises, creativity, etc.)
10:30-12:00 Develop Big Ideas for Berwick
Goal: Develop Big Ideas / principles that reflect Berwick’s identity and aspirations
Describe and discuss with the small group what Big Ideas are
What is Berwick’s identity? What is its future?
How do you know you’re in Berwick?
What are some general design principles we can draw from this?

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Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway Project

12:00-1:00 Working lunch – CEU to consolidate Big Ideas over lunch

Print copies for each group in the afternoon
Share ideas with the youth group for the afternoon session – see how they interpret the
Big Ideas, and how they would illustrate Commercial Street to represent the identity of Berwick
Product: List of Big Ideas
Walkability tour of Northern Gateway (area close to bridge / fire hall)

1:00-2:30 Design work – smaller groups

Goal: Explore how the Big Ideas / identity of Berwick translate to local design improvements
Each design group/ table will explore a different element of the project:
1. Commercial Street
2. Passive riverside park and trail system
3. The highway off-ramp and overpass

All stations will work on their separate piece but all stations will overlap in the design of the
Berwick Gateway and the area around the fire station. The Berwick Gateway design will include
the following elements:
• The bridge
• A landmark structure
• Signage and branding
• Town map and welcome sign

What do you think is possible for this area? What would be the (fun / bold / easy) thing to do?
Does the gateway relate to the larger study area, the landmark, the bridge?
How do the Big Ideas guide the design?
Product: Designs and ideas for all gateway elements: landmarks, public/open spaces, trails,
street and sidewalk, signage, transportation

2:30–3:30 Consolidating, Illustrating and Advancing the Design

Goal: Bring together all the different design ideas and begin to consolidate, illustrate and advance
these ideas as a single group.
Product: Consolidated Map of Berwick Gateway

3:30-4:00 Wrap-up. Next Steps.

48
 Appendices

Appendix B
Youth Ideas
The following is a list of things youth in the community love about Berwick, Youth ideas that support the Big Ideas
as well as project ideas that came from youth in Berwick. Considering youth and design concepts:
perspectives, and including students in the creation, design and execution
• Bike Centre – Repair, Sell, and Trade?
of new projects, fosters community pride and a sense of ownership. • A field of wind turbines, a golf course
• Solar farm
What Kids Like About Berwick • Keep Big Apple
• Clean out swamp by the overpass
• Grandparents and put in a walking path or buildings or
• The Park houses or something like that
• All of the gardens and trees, and the good environment of the town • More apple trees/a fruit garden
• Terry Fox Run • Don’t cut down trees and don’t litter
• There should be a duck pond to support
• The school
the wildlife that lives in Berwick
• It is nice to be able to walk up to the store and get groceries and a treat
• The nice stores and lots of nice people
• The apple trees, place to buy food (grocery), homes and restaurants
• Delicious apples, ice cream, pretty pets, local goods, plants,
birdies, skate park, the school, stores, yummy treats
and that Berwick is a nice quiet town
• Fire hall
• That some of the houses are really old fashioned
• Big back yards
• Lots of friends in our neighbourhood
• The sports field
• The police
• Keep Same Town!
• No City
• Berwick’s a town, not a city
• The skate park
• The swamp – it is a rare habitat/make a park to protect it

Project Ideas
• More soccer fields
• A pool
• Dog Park
• Improve playgrounds
• Outdoor auditorium
• Outdoor basketball & volleyball courts
• Running track (400 m)
• Theatre!!!
49
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway Project

• Trails through the town

• Better sidewalks
• More fast food restaurants
• Less fast food restaurants
• Science museum
• No idling
• Zip line
• Man made lake
• Public garden
• Human catapult
• Information Centre with maps and stuff…yeah
• Shopping centre, Golf Town Store, Par 3 Golf and an NHL hockey team
• Amusement park
• Boxing ring with huge gloves/fighting practice
• Paint ball/laser tag
• Keep the gazebo or make it bigger and better
• Petting zoo
• Shoe store
• Chill-zone (where you can go and be with your friends only for teens
• More teen events i.e. Dance
• Music store
• Skating park
• Waterpark
• Video game store/arcade
• Hydroelectric dam
• Farmers Market
• More town garbage cans
• An art studio and people can come with their own supplies and
do art with like $2 to get in. If we had an art studio it would
be awesome and I would be more than happy.
• A vet/animal shelter that helps abused pets
• Club house
• Fountain/Town Square
• Take the nails off the railroad track
• Camp for kids
• Dirt bike track

50
 Appendices
Appendix C
Commercial Street Tree Recommendations
The addition of street trees lining Commercial Street creates an environmentally healthy and
aesthetically pleasing entry to the Town of Berwick.
Little Leaf Linden Chanticleer Ornamental Pear
(Tilia cordata) (Pyrus calleryana ‘Glen’s Form’)

Growing Prefers full sun; excellent growth in urban Less susceptible to early freezes; good in
conditions conditions; excellent as a shade tree places where space to spread is limited;
hardy in cold conditions

Flower colour Fragrant yellow flowers; blossoms in June White flowers

Fall colour Golden fall colour Reddish fall colour

Growth rate Moderate Moderate

Origin Not native to North American (Europe) Not native to North American (China)

Mature height 16m 13m

Mature spread 8m 5m

Disease Disease free Disease resistant

51
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway Project

Commercial Street Tree Recommendations

The addition of street trees lining Commercial Street creates an environmentally healthy and
aesthetically pleasing entry to the Town of Berwick.
Autumn Gold Maidenhair Tree Ivory Silk Tree Lilac
(Ginkgo biloba ‘Autumn Gold’) (Syringa reticulata ‘Ivory Silk’)

Growing Prefers full sun; male selection: excellent Need little maintenance; sun / half shade
conditions growth in urban areas; considered one of
best Ginko cultivars

Flower colour Green; pleasant fragrance Fragrant white flowers, blossoms in June;
flowers at a young age

Foliage Bright yellow fall colour, unique foliage No fall colour change
(fan shaped)
Growth rate Slow Moderate

Origin Not native to North America Not native to North America

Mature height 10m 7.5m

Mature spread 10m 5m

Disease Disease free Usually not affected by pests

52
 Appendices

Park Space Tree Recommendations

Each of these trees has unique qualities which will add to the proposed park spaces in Berwick.

Common Horse Chestnut Western Catalpa

(Aesculus hippocastanum) (Catalpa speciosa)

Growing Plant in full sun; suitable for urban Plant in full sun; xeriscape plant
conditions conditions; prefers consistently moist,
but well drained soils

Flower colour White cone-shaped flowers in spring; Fragrant white flowers in June and July; fruit
chestnuts drop in the fall is a long pod

Foliage Yellow fall colour; excellent shade tree Yellow-green fall colour; large green heart-
shaped leaves

Growth rate Medium Rapid

Origin Not native to North American (Europe) Canada

Mature height 18m 16m

Mature spread 16m 12m

Disease Susceptible to leaf blotch and scorch Disease resistant

53
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway Project

Park Space Tree Recommendations

Each of these trees has unique qualities which will add to the proposed park spaces in Berwick.

Tulip Tree Common Hackberry

(Liriodendron tulipifera) (Celtis occidentalis)

Growing Full sun; plant in loose soil where roots Suitable for difficult growing conditions;
conditions will not be restricted; allow room for this can be planted in full sun or partial
large tree to grow; plant in spring shade

Flower colour Tulip shaped flowers in May; may attract Orange-red fruit
bees
Foliage Golden fall colour Yellow fall colour

Growth rate Moderate to rapid Rapid

Origin Canada Canada

Mature height 25m 20m

Mature spread 5m 18m

Disease Can have problems with aphids and scale Some trees are disease resistant

54
 Appendices

Garden Tree Recommendations

Each of these trees has unique qualities which will add to the proposed garden spaces in Berwick.

Saucer Magnolia Allegheny Serviceberry

(Magnolia x soulangiana) (Amalanchier laevis)

Growing Full sun or partial shade; fairly adaptable Can be planted in sunny or shaded areas
conditions and easy to grow

Flower colour Pinkish-purple flowers that are white White flowers; edible purplish fruit; birds
inside; flowers before leaves appear in and wildlife eat the fruit
early spring

Foliage Deep green foliage; bronze fall colour Orange-red or red fall colour

Growth rate Medium Medium

Origin Not native to North American (China) Canada

Mature height 6m 6m

Mature spread 3m 5m

Disease Minor disease and pest problems Witches broom, damage not serious

55
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway Project

Garden Tree Recommendations

Each of these trees has unique qualities which will add to the proposed garden spaces in Berwick.

Prairifire Crabapple Rhododendron

(Malus ‘Prairifire’) (Rhododendron)

Growing Full sun; low maintenance Plant in a sheltered area away from full
conditions sun and winter winds

Flower colour Pinkish-red flowers; fruit does not drop Various flower colours

Foliage Deep red foliage 900 different species and cultivars

Growth rate Moderate Slow

Origin Not native to North America Some species native to North America

Mature height 6m 1.5m

Mature spread 6m 1.2m

Disease Highly disease resistant Disease resistant

56
 Appendices

Wetland and Riparian Areas Recommendations

Each of these species has unique qualities which will add aesthetic and ecological benefits to the
wetlands and riparian areas in Berwick.

Trees Shrubs Perennials

• Cottonwood • Red Osier Dogwood • Cinnamon Fern
• Trembling Aspen • Willows • Marsh Marigold
• Red Maple • Sweet Pepperbush (Clethra) • Water lilies
• Silver Maple • Buttonbush • Skunk Cabbage
• Bur Oak • Cattails
• Pickerel Weed
• Arrowhead
Include plants listed on the Nova Scotia Species at Risk Atlantic Plain Flora list (specifically Sweet
Pepperbush (Clethra) and Water Pennywort which are listed as being endangered in the Annapolis
Valley Region).
57
Town of Berwick: Northern Gateway Project

Orchard Recommendations
The following suggested apples have optimal bloom times and are suitable for Berwick planting
conditions. They will provide attractive, edible landscape which represents the history of Berwick.

Gravenstein Cortland McIntosh Honey Crisp

All of the above apple trees can be considered for the Town’s orchard, which will be located in
the Entry Garden.

Apple trees require a lot of care. The trees must have good drainage as they cannot survive in
standing water; must not be planted in a frost pocket; some trees will need staking for the duration
of their lives; and regular mulch will increase the health of the trees.

As the trees are susceptible to various diseases they will need to be sprayed. The trees will need
to be checked and cared for throughout the year. It is recommended that the Town of Berwick
ensure there is someone responsible for this task. If this is not an option then the recommended
park trees may be planted in place of the apple trees.

58
Appendices

59
Site Plan