This coming Saturday Commerce Sherbrooke, as part of the Explore Lennox revitalization project, will launch a new public square on Queen Street in Lennoxville in the vacant lot beside Familiprix.
Project head Anne-Sophie Demers hopes the space, complete with shaded seating areas, picnic tables, a stage and other structures and landscaping will provide the community with a safe space to gather in small groups outside and support local businesses, artists and community groups.
According to Demers, the general layout for the space is ready and construction is underway, but what becomes of the new hub, which has yet to be named, is entirely up to the local community.
Anything goes, Demers said, from pop-up shops to music performances or outdoor gallery shows, Zumba classes, yoga, storytelling.
Demers said the new hub will host the Lennoxville Farmers’ Market and also act as a drop off point for Consumer Supported Agriculture baskets. Live music is also on the menu, Demers said, although instead of booking full bands likely to attract a large crowd, the stage will welcome local soloists and small groups. Singer Songwriter Jon MacAulay has already been booked for July 18, she said.
An official launch for the space will take place this Saturday, Demers said, and Commerce Sherbrooke representatives will have a table set up to hear ideas from the community about what they would like to see happen in the space.
Anyone with an idea for the new space is welcome to stop by on Saturday or contact Demers directly by emailing info@explorelennox.com or calling 819-238-1820.
New outdoor community hub in Lennoxville
By Matthew McCully
