When cities employ the use of urban growth boundaries, which are essentially a concept and planning tool useful for communities that are experiencing or anticipating significant growth, they can be detrimental to the success and viability of the city’s growth and development. These carefully considered and established growth boundaries are designed to fit growth into the community’s natural environment and protect important natural, social and cultural resources. What’s more, boundaries adjustments can aid the community to more efficiently and cost effectively provide a public and community infrastructure to support future growth and development.
A recent article issued by the City of Edmonton aimed to summarize the process and impact such boundary changes would have on this ever-evolving city. The city’s southern boundary would be extended to handle growth in the southern region. Changes to the corridor along the west side of the QE II Highway, as well as near the Edmonton International Airport are considered in this proposed adjustment.
The city is working to secure lands in these areas to make way for the demand of residential, business and employment growth. All of these aspects contribute funds to the majority of infrastructure and support services for the city proper.
Mayor Steven Mandel said the city continues to work with county officials to bring in the right combination of services and growth management techniques that are vital to the future of the capital region. The Capital Region board anticipates nearly four percent growth by the end of 2013 for Edmonton, a center rich in employment, education, culture and socialization.
Boundary adjustments can help manage growth in a way that avoids patchwork infrastructure, alleviates traffic congestion and facilitates responsible growth and development. The process, which includes extensive consultation and applications, is expected to take two to five years.
These adjustments are not a matter of taking a look at current boundaries and making unnecessary changes. If the City of Edmonton wishes to remain a vibrant, important hub for Canadians and people of the world, taking the necessary steps toward progress and development will be essential to the city’s success. If done properly, these changes will ensure responsible growth and development and will be detrimental to the real estate industry, educational institutions and everyone that depends on a well-oiled community.
Visit www.edmonton.ca/regionalplanning for more information on the annexation proposals and processes.
Post by Alexis Hlady
