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In Tuesday’s statement, Beaudry said efforts to raise funds for the building’s replacement began in 2013. But the campaign “ultimately failed to secure the necessary community support.”

But it did turn up interest from Brandt Developments.

“To explore the opportunity more fully, we agreed in 2014 to pause our process and enter into a time-limited agreement with Brandt,” according to Beaudry’s statement. “This agreement saw them develop a design concept for the site as a multi-tenant facility in which CNIB would occupy rent-free space.”

That concept was the one presented to the WCA in 2014. Architects blasted the proposal at the time, saying it raised “profound difficulties” and was too dense for the park.

CNIB acknowledged that “comprehensive” feedback, but said CNIB was also led to believe there was a path forward for the project.

The expression of interest process followed, “on the recommendation of the provincial government, and in accordance with our procurement practices,” Beaudry explained. Her statement said seven parties inquired, but only Brandt ended up submitting a proposal.

“We are confident in the diligence of our selection process, and we believe this project can be delivered in such a way as to uphold the values of the park and benefit the community,” Beaudry said. “Critically, this new facility will ensure blind and partially sighted Reginans can count on CNIB for years to come.”