The evolution of KW

[Rainrider22]

What I find interesting about this, having lived in both cores, is how the geometry of Carl Zehr Square impedes using it to the fullest, as UpTown has been better able to do. The fountain/ice rink being in the center means it must be crossed or rounded in order to access the gathering space between it and City Hall's doors. It's always seemed less used than UpTown. Had the rink been placed against either where carbon computing was, or where Williams is, there would be no barrier between where you walk and where you gather, and Kitchener would see its square have more use.

Indeed, this is the main reason WPS got the nod as opposed to Kitchener's Civic Square. That KCS configuration is not as conducive to the gathering that takes place at WPS. There are two main reasons for this: one is the location of the fountain, the other is the lack of seating with central focus, like WPS has.

I really don't see an issue with the civic square in Kitchener as some of you seem to think. I have attended many events there with my family and have not found it to be uninviting or difficult to get around. Most time I park in the underground so when I come up and exit, I am in the square. Additionally, with the upgrades to King street, they just shut it down now and you have a much larger square using the street. The fact that there is no curbs makes this very easy.  I think they did a great job.  I find it particularly interesting that this forum often criticizes all things Kitchener.  Just my observation having read this forum everyday for the last few years even when it was Wonderful Waterloo.