A new landmark sign could become part of Centennial Square’s makeover, and it would come at no cost to taxpayers.
Victoria councillor Jeremy Caradonna shared that a local non-profit, The Good City Project, has offered to donate a large illuminated “VICTORIA” sign that would be added to the square’s redesign.
The group hopes this installation will become a photo-friendly feature that draws more people into the downtown space and helps celebrate the city’s identity.
The organization says the sign would be locally designed and built using durable materials.
They envision it placed in a prominent location within the renewed square, where it can help activate the space and welcome visitors.
In their letter to council, the group described the sign as something that could spark civic pride and contribute to a more vibrant community gathering place.
Their offer would only move forward if council approves the project for construction.
If that happens, The Good City Project says it would collaborate with city staff to finalize the location, design details, technical requirements, and a long-term maintenance agreement.
What is changing at Centennial Square?
City staff are presenting an updated design for Centennial Square to council today.
The project was scaled back earlier this year after the budget was reduced by $2.5 million as part of funding reallocated to the city’s Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan.
That funding change was also the reason a motion was brought forward earlier this fall to pause or cancel the redevelopment until a revised design could be produced.
The updated plan keeps the large sequoia tree that had become the focal point of public criticism. Site work in the eastern half of the square, where removal of the sequoia and other trees had been previously planned, is now being deferred to a future phase.
Related: Decision to cancel Centennial Square revitalization postponed until later this month
This deferral also pauses sub-surface utility work, accessibility grading and the relocation of the existing Centennial monoliths, which will now be removed and stored until work resumes in that area.
The revised phase one design focuses on upgrades that the city considers priorities.
These include a natural play area aimed at families, a sloped “expanded green” lawn that creates a basic amphitheatre effect for music and small events, and a simplified interactive water feature with misting and cooling jets instead of a full splash park.
The city says this scaled version reduces water consumption and construction costs while still helping with heat relief in summer.
Other changes include upgraded electrical servicing for food trucks and events, brighter lighting, additional trees and drought-tolerant landscaping, shaded seating with umbrellas and greater support for arts programming through a central stage.
According to the report, these features are tied directly to goals outlined in the city’s new Community Safety and Wellbeing Plan, which emphasizes creating spaces that attract more people, improve safety perception and support social connection.
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026 with completion targeted for early 2027.
What do you think of the proposed Victoria sign being added? Let us know in the comment section below!
With files from Curtis Blandy
