What should Waterloo Region do with its Cold War bunker?
The Region of Waterloo is asking the public for ideas about what a crumbling Cold War bunker, built in the 1960s to shelter officials in the event of a nuclear attack, could be used for today. The online survey at EngageWR.ca asks for suggestions for what to do with this unique structure, in a beautiful setting, highlighting that it sits in the middle of Schneider Park, beside the Grand River. The survey emphasizes the underground bunkers uniqueness and heritage value, but doesnt mention the significant cost of fixing up the facility  pegged at $4 million to $4.5 million, depending on what the building might be used for. The survey doesnt offer demolition as a possible option. It is believed to be the only example of a purpose-built Municipal Emergency Government Headquarters still in existence and in government ownership in Canada, the preamble says. It was designed by the same architectural firm that designed the CN Tower. It uses a form of construction that is unique and will rarely, if ever, be replicated again in modern times. It is a relic of a relatively short but impactful and scary time in our nations history.  It notes the bunker has a relatively large meeting space, looking out onto the forest and river, with a kitchen and washrooms. Its on an express bus route, next to the Walter Bean trail, and just minutes away from Fairview Road, and less than 2 km from the proposed Sportsworld Crossing ION LRT station.  Questions ask how the natural setting, proximity to transit and trails, the bunkers unique history and its sustainable design  built to blend into the landscape and be completely off-grid  spark ideas for future reuse. Respondents are reminded that the site would need to be renovated, that its location on the floodplain means it couldnt be used for any purpose that would involve overnight stays. Along with the survey, theres a photo gallery of 25 photos, including a couple of civil defence posters from the 1950s featuring a gloved and hatted female character named Bea Alerte who warns of the importance of emergency preparedness. Theres also background material on the bunker, including a plan of its layout, archival material about its origins and studies on its heritage value. People can respond to the survey until early August. Regional council approved a expedited consultation process on the bunkers future, so that it can decide this fall on whether to spend money to prevent further damage to the crumbling building. Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading... Loading...