Alderney Plaza demonstrates that infrastructure is an opportunity for placemaking when we take a participatory approach to design. The plaza was reimagined with input from the community, who participated in various creative engagement sessions. It was built with support from an energetic team of Dalhousie Architecture students during their FreeLab course. By working with community, the plaza was transformed into a vibrant space with greenery, shade, seating, and many new programming opportunities. The revitalized plaza features a 64-foot bench with five 10-foot piers, shade sails, hand-woven hammocks, and a beautiful garden. Located in the heart of Downtown Dartmouth and at a key public transit node, the project connects people through art, play and collective ownership.