About the Project
Mary Burlie Park, located on 97 Street, was established in 1999. The park is named in honour of Mary Burlie. The late Mary Burlie (1935-1996) was an advocate and social worker for Black communities in Edmonton. She was one of Boyle Street Community Services’ first volunteers when it opened in 1971 and continued her work there, earning the nickname “the Black angel of Boyle Street,” until her death in 1996.
The park was initially identified as part of the Boyle Street and McCauley Neighbourhood Renewal project which included improved connections to the alleys and rail corridor, improved park sight lines and tree planting. During the 2023-26 City budget deliberations, additional funding was allocated as part of Chinatown Infrastructure Improvements to allow for a more comprehensive renewal of Mary Burlie Park and it will now proceed as an independent project.
The goal of the renewal, in addition to repairing or replacing the existing infrastructure, is to improve safety and accessibility and increase the use of this open space.
Construction is anticipated to start in 2025 to align with McCauley Neighbourhood Renewal and it is expected the project will be complete in 2026.
‘A Vision of Hope’ Sculpture
Mary Burlie Park has been home to the ‘A Vision of Hope’ sculpture by artist Michele Mitchell. The sculpture was installed in Mary Burlie Park on December 6, 1999 and was commissioned for the 10th anniversary of the École Polytechnique massacre. Separate from the park renewal project, the Edmonton Arts Council had identified the sculpture needed to be removed for restoration. The sculpture was removed in fall 2023. Once the Edmonton Arts Council has repaired the sculpture, it will assess whether Mary Burlie Park is the best location for it and/or if it should be moved to a new location.
