City staff has recommended that council authorize a contract for the redevelopment of the Vancouver Art Gallery North Plaza.

The proposal would see Jacob Bros. Construction, a Surrey-based outfit, remodel the plaza for close to $6 million.

According to a report going to council, the project would involve the “deconstruction of the existing fountain and underground service space, backfilling the resultant excavation, creating a large storm-water catchment area along Hornby Street, installing trees, planters and new paving over the entire plaza area, and the construction of a bus shelter along Howe Street above the existing underground space.”

The report cites improved accessibility and convenient seating as a positive that would come out of eliminating “level changes”. Further, existing trees on site will reportedly be removed and replaced by new trees.

The construction, if approved by council, is expected to commence in July 2016 and be completed in February 2017

Council will hear the recommendation next Wednesday (June 29).