Town of Aurora Celebrates Grand Opening of New Community Reflection Space
Aurora, ON –The Town of Aurora officially opened its new Community Reflection Space this afternoon, welcoming residents, community leaders and dignitaries to celebrate the completion of the space dedicated to reflection, inclusion and connection.
Located outside the front entrance of Town Hall, the Community Reflection Space is a large open area that can comfortably support substantial crowds and ceremonies.
“The Community Reflection Space is a meaningful addition to Aurora Town Hall and an example of our commitment to creating a community where everyone feels welcome and valued,” said Mayor Tom Mrakas. “This space gives residents an opportunity to pause, reflect and connect with others while encouraging understanding and peaceful healing.”
The Community Reflection Space was originally proposed by the Indigenous Relations Committee in January 2023 as a place for Truth and Reconciliation, with its purpose later expanding to provide a dedicated space for reflection and collective grief following tragic events.
“This Community Reflection Space is a place where people can gather in a spirit of respect, reflection, and connection. I truly believe it will serve as a reminder of the importance of listening, learning, and walking together as a community toward understanding, healing, and reconciliation,” said Grandmother Kim Wheatley.
The space features two interconnected areas, the River Plaza and Sky Ribbon Forest, designed to support peaceful gathering, contemplation, and community connection. In the centre, there is a circular gathering space with a raised podium for seating or ceremonies, serving as the symbolic heart of the site. The Sky Ribbon, a shallow reflective water feature, mirrors the sky at ground level and draws on the cross-cultural significance of water as a symbol of reflection, continuity, and spiritual connection.
The space also includes a Wind Phone, a private place where individuals can speak to and remember loved ones who have passed away, made possible through a partnership with Oasis Bereavement Services and the Aurora Seniors' Centre. Enhanced accessible pathways and thoughtful site integration further connect the Reflection Space with nearby amenities, including the Arboretum and Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Park.
Accessibility, safety, and inclusivity are also central to the design. Features include consolidated accessible parking, barrier-free routes, accessible seating, gentle grade changes, and smooth surfaces to ensure all visitors can participate comfortably. Vehicle access is restricted to improve safety, with landscaping, relocated flagpoles, and natural barriers helping define and protect the space.
The design also incorporates Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles and introduces additional landscaping to support long-term sustainability and maintenance.
To support a peaceful, inclusive, and non-political environment, the design was guided by community feedback. The space was developed with extensive consultation with advisory committees, community organizations, and residents. Council approved Town Hall as the location in July 2024 due to its accessibility, privacy, parking availability, and staff oversight, while minimizing conflicts with recreational activities. The Reflection Space construction was completed in October 2026.
For more information, on the Town of Aurora, visit aurora.ca.
Sign up to our Newsletter
Stay up to date on the town's activities, events, programs and operations by subscribing to our eNewsletters.
