1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan What Is the GMP?
How the GMP Is Used
1993 Focus
Edmonton's General Municipal Plan (GMP) provides a vision for Edmonton's future and a strategy to achieve that future. It focuses on the most important issues for the city's growth and development. City Council adopted the GMP as Bylaw 9076 in November 1990. Its objectives and policies will help shape the future of Edmonton over the next five to eight years.
The civic corporation and the private sector achieve the GMP objectives through a range of activities. The civic corporation draws upon civic capital and operating budgets to provide financial and staff resources. Day-to-day land use planning activities produce various area structure plans, area redevelopment plans and topical studies which support the GMP goal. The success of GMP policies relies on a coordinated caporate approach; departments working together on common goals.
In 1993, the focus was on inner city initiatives, suburban development, the environment and transportation issues. In the inner city, the emphasis was on the renewal of special needs areas, with the continuation of a number of community planning exercises and efforts to upgrade substandard housing and increase housing options. In the suburbs, studies focused on development trends and staging of
About this Report This report describes 44 initiatives undertaken in 1993 which achieve the objectives and policies of the GMP. Grouped by strategic issue areas, the initiatives describe how policies set in the 1990 GMP were translated to specific activities in 1993. This linking of policy to actions is necessary to maintain the vision as set out in the GMP. The report ends with a look forward to 1994.
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suburban growth. Environmental initiatives include the preparation of a policy to protect environmentally sensitive and significant areas on Edmonton's table lands and the development of an environmental review process. Transportation issues include initiation of the Transportation Master Plan and the development of a number of neighbourhood traffic plans.
February 1994
For the review, the main user groups of the GMP were asked to comment on the effectiveness of GMP strategies and policies. They were also asked to identify any policy gaps within the document and indicate areas in need of implementation attention. The comments and suggestions furnished by the user groups provide a measure of effectiveness of the GMP and provide the Planning and Development Department with a list of comments, concerns and suggestions regarding improvement of the GMP.
INTERIM REVIEW OF THE 1990 GMP The Planning and Development Department has conducted an interim review of the GMP to determine the effectiveness of the GMP in dealing with current issues and trends. The review was used to determine whether amendments to the GMP are needed at this time.
Most user groups report that the GMP provides an effective framework for their activities. They identify, however, various policy areas within the GMP where it is felt additional or amended policies are needed. Underrepresentation of environmental issues, especially as they relate to sustainability and conservation issues, is noted. Urban growth issues are also a prevalent concern, including the lack of available infrastructure funds and the need to reexamine suburban growth patterns. Other concerns include the need for policies dealing with the emergence of homebased businesses, and the need to establish agricultural conservation zones for valuable or unique areas. A number of these policy concerns are currently being considered, including: *development of a Suburban Investment Strategy; •development of a policy on environmentally sensitive sites; •definition of separation distances between heavy industry and other land uses; *preparation of a new Downtown A.R.P; *coordination of transportation and land use planning (through the Transportation Master Plan); *creation of policies regarding environmental review procedures. Other policy concerns can be dealt with at a later stage, depending on urgency and funding.
User groups suggest a number of amendments to GMP policies in order to incorporate policy changes which have occurred since 1990. Examples include: • updated references to downtown policies and programs; *inclusion of the recently completed heritage inventory and Historic Resource Management Plan; *further definition and refinement of environmentally sensitive areas; *inclusion of Safer City initiatives; 'inclusion of references to SCDB's; *reconciliation of healthy communities and nurturing neighbourhood concepts. Some of the user groups note their preference for a plan which is more prescriptive and provides detailed direction. Some of the concerns brought forward would require the inclusion of implementation strategies which do not fit within the strategic framework of the current GMP. The strategic nature of the GMP, however, will likely not change in the near future. Implementation strategies will therefore, in most cases, remain the responsibility of the user groups. Though the inclusion of policy amendments reflecting the concerns voiced by the user groups would increase the relevancy of the GMP, amending the GMP at this stage is premature. Most of the major policy studies are still underway. Amendments to the GMF' will be prepared in conjunction with City Council approval of new policies. Furthermore, the planning process is currently under review by both the City of Edmonton (Planning Process Roundtable) and the Province (review of the Planning Act). It will be more beneficial to combine GMP amendments with the directions coming out of the two planning review processes, rather than amending the GMP in a piecemeal fashion. As a result, no policy amendments to the GMP are recommended at this time.
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 2
For a copy of the GMP review, further information on GMP initiatives or additional copies of the Initiatives Report contact: Berry Wijdeven Policy and Information Branch Planning and Development Department (403) 496-6062
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Community Planning
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Community planning exercises are currently underway in Boyle Street/McCauley, Central McDougall/Queen Mary Park, Riverdale, 114 Street and in the sixteen member neighbourhoods of the South East Communities Planning Coalition. (Policies
1.4.1, 1.A.2, 1.A.3, 1.A.5, 1.4.6, 1.4.7) Neighbourhood Improvement Program
REVITALIZING THE INNER CITY The planning approach for the inner city emphasizes the renewal of special needs areas, the enhancement of inner city communities and the coordination of civic action. Selected inner city neighbourhoods require priority attention because of
their socio-economic and physical problems. The GMP proposes a strategy
which involves concerted, corporate commitment.
Through the Neighbourhood Improvement Program (NIP), improvements were completed in Britannia/Youngstown. A review of needed improvements was initiated in Boyle Street/McCauley.
(Policies 1.A.1, 1.4.2, 1.4.6, 1.4.7) Nurturing Neighbourhoods City Council has given the go ahead for a pilot project on community development called Nur-
turing Neighbourhoods. The project seeks to provide people with the opportunity to participate in the decisions affecting their neighbourhoods and rebuild a sense of community. (Policies 1.A.1, 1.A.2, 1.B.1) Affordable Housing Workshop The Planning and Development Department chaired a workshop on ways to provide affordable ownership housing in special needs innercity neighbourhoods. A package containing the findings of the workshop is being prepared while a demonstration project is being contemplated. (Policies
1.B.1, 1.B.4) Upgrading Substandard Rental Housing The Safe Housing Committee, under the direction of the Commissioner of Housing, has developed a Guideline that establishes minimum standards of health and safety for existing rental multiple occupancy dwellings. The Guide-
line encompasses provisions regarding fire, electrical and building safety and health concerns. Compliance with the Guideline will also be considered when a property owner wishes to obtain or renew a licence to operate a rental multiple occupancy dwelling. Preliminary findings of a demonstration project to test the Guideline suggest that it allows for economical upgrading of affordable housing to minimum standards of health and safety. Coordinated inspection of inner city housing is now occurring using the Guideline. (Policies
gram, Britannia/Youngstown Sports Night, Westlawn Youth Network, Summer in Strathcona and Leader-in-Training program.
1.4.1, 1.4.3, 1.B.1, 1.B.3)
cies 1.A.1, 1.4.3, 1.A.6, 1.A.7)
Provision of CityOwned Land for Social Housing
Urban Gardens
The Office of the Housing Commissioner assisted in providing City-owned lands in Norwood for the development of a 20 unit efficiency apartment building for low income singles and for construction of three low income
dwellings by Habitat for Humanity. A number of City -owned properties in Boyle/McCauley have been committed for social housing projects which will be developed in 1994 under various federal/provincial programs. These projects will provide approximately 100 units for several
high priority housing need client groups. The Office of the Housing Commissioner has also worked to increase federal and provincial government funding for new social housing units.
(Policies 1.A.1, 1.A.3, 1.B.1, 1.B.4) Children and Youth at Risk The Parks and Recreation Department has entered into partnerships with local businesses, community leagues, non-profit organizations and other city departments to offer recreation programs for at risk children and youth. The programs provide positive experiences and build self-esteem for the young people involved. Examples include the River-Valley Reach-Out program, Inglewood Karate Pro-
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 3
The Department has also initiated the Opting In program which offers training and work placement opportunities for youth-at-risk. Personal, social and development work sessions take place prior to a three week job experience. Motivation is developed through recreational activities to increase levels of achievement and self-esteem. The programs are part of the Safer Cities Initiatives. (Poli-
The Planning and Development Department developed an urban garden program. The first of these gardens was successfully established in Boyle Street. (Policies
1.4.1, 1.B.1, 1.C.1)
Revised Terms of Reference for Local Plans
A terms of reference for local plans in suburban and industrial
MANAGING SUBURBAN GROWTH The planning approach for suburban areas includes managing growth, ensuring adequate neighbourhood services and maintaining a balanced mix and density of housing. The GMP allows for market forces, while pursuing the goal of heterogeneous communities and orderly and economic development. The GMP encourages flexibility in designing attractive and functional neighbourhoods.
areas has been prepared by the Planning and Development Department. Its intent is to clearly define and update requirements for submitting statutory and nonstatutory local plans to the City of Edmonton for approval. There have been substantial changes in the format and technical requirements for local statutory and nonstatutory plans. The package was circulated in late 1993 to the development industry and other public groups for review, prior to it proceeding to Council. (Policies 2.A.2, 2.A.3, 2.B.1, 2.B2, 2.B.3, 2.B.4) Servicing Concept Design Briefs (SCDB)
1993 has seen progress towards the completion of an SCDB for Kinokamau Plains in northwest Edmonton. The intent of this SCDB, as directed by City Council, is to resolve incompatible land use issues within the largely undeveloped study area. The focus of the SCDB includes the establishment of adequate separation distances between heavy industry and future residential areas, the protection of ICinolcamau Lake as an important wetland and wildlife management area and options for future water and sewer servicing, including the possible use of natural wetlands for drainage purposes. (Policies 2.A.1, 2.A.2,
2.A.3, 2.A.4, 2.A.6, 2.B.1, 3.A.3, 7. A .9) Northeast Planning Strategy Since the adoption of the Northeast Planning Strategy in 1991, detailed technical studies have been undertaken to address the sanitary and storm systems for the northeast. The Administration is currently negotiating with the Capital Region Sewage Commission regarding the expansion and use of the regional plant. A final agreement between the City and the Sewage Commission is ex-
pected in 1995. In the interim, northeast owners are negotiating a cost share agreement which will provide for the construction of the initial stages of the North Edmonton Sanitary Think. The goal for completion of the first phase of the sewage trunk is October 1994.
(Policies 2.A.1, 2.A.3, 2.A.7, 2.A.8) Stormwater Management
A study was completed for the Drainage Branch of the Transportation Department regarding the opportunities for improvement of water quality in stormwater lakes. In addition, the Drainage Branch prepared guidelines to allow for boating and canoeing of certain stormwater lakes for the 1993 summer season. In part, the completed technical study will provide the context for the preparation of municipal policy regarding stormwater lakes. The Planning and Development Department is coordinating an interdepartmental review of stormwater management issues in suburban areas. The review will address revised municipal design and operating standards for stormwater lakes; the location of dry ponds; and anticipated Provincial legislation regarding the quality of stormwater discharged in the North Saskatchewan River. By late 1994 a comprehensive stormwater lake policy will be presented to City Council and design guidelines prepared for review at the Municipal Planning Commission. (Policies 2.A.6, 7.A.9) Re-examining the Topof-the-Bank Public Roadway Policy The Planning and Development Department, as directed by the Municipal Planning Commission, is examining the top-of-the-bank public roadway policy. The project addresses key issues and concerns that have been expressed by civic departments and the development industry. Recommendations for specific changes to the existing policy and the implementation procedures to clearly define
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 4
the top-of-the-bank and clarify requirements for future development will be made. (Policies
2.A.6, 5.A.4, 6.C.1)
Recreation Facilities The Parks and Recreation Department completed work on the Arena Strategy, which was approved by Council. The plan deals with a range of issues including fees and charges, scheduling, facility use and capital de-
velopment. (Policies 2.A.2, 2.A.3, 2.A.4, 2.B.1, 2.B.2) Natural Parks and Open Space The Parks and Recreation Department is continuing with its program to naturalize parks and open space. The program enhances local environments and creates new opportunities for recreation and education. In 1993, 140,000 seedlings and 2,350 trees were planted. Involvement and commitments by private organizations, schools, community and non-profit groups have reduced the cost of planting and maintenance. (Policies 2.A.6, 2.A.7,
2.B.1, 2.B.2, 2.B.3) Suburban investment Strategy The Planning and Development and Transportation Departments have produced the 1994-1998 Suburban Investment Strategy Report. This report identifies the proposed priority of capital projects to resolve existing infra-
structure deficiencies. It also provides a set of principles and actions to accommodate suburban growth, an inventory of infrastructure deficiencies in existing incomplete neighbourhoods and a set of single family lot servicing forecasts for 1994-1998. The investment strategy will provide guidance in the consideration of new ASP, SCDB and NASP submissions to determine whether it is appropriate to approve new areas or neighbourhoods for development from a cost of infrastructure perspective. (Policies 2. A.1,
2.A.2, 2.A.3, 2.A.4, 2.B.1, 7. A.9)
Development of Separation Distances and Transition Zones Between Heavy Industry and Other Land Uses
BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT AREAS The planning approach for business and employment areas provides for new types of commercial and industrial land uses to reflect employment growth in the service and trade sectors. Other policy
The Planning and Development Department has begun an examination of the incompatibility of heavy industry and other uses in order to determine appropriate separation distances and transitional uses. Incompatibility has emerged as an issue in redistricting applications and in proposals for the conversion of industrial land to other uses. A terms of reference has been prepared and discussed with interested groups and neighbouring authorities. The aim of the project is to produce detailed policy guidelines and criteria for evaluating development proposals and other related issues. (Policies 3.A.2, 3.A.3, 3.A.4)
Home Based Businesses The Planning and Development Department investigated the increasing number of home based businesses and ways to facilitate these new enterprises. On the basis of this study, Council passed a Land Use bylaw amendment making it easier to establish a minor business in the home.
(Policy 3.A.1) Business Revitalization The Planning and Development Department assisted in the creation of the Old Strathcona Business Revitalization Zone and was involved in revitalization efforts on 118 Avenue. (Policies 3.D.1, 3.D.2, 3.D.3, 3.D.4)
approaches encourage town
centres, provide for major commercial corridors, reinforce established commercial strips, promote the renewal of older industrial areas and recognize major activity centres.
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DOWNTOWN The planning approach for Downtown Edmonton focuses on initiatives which revitalize the downtown, promote housing In the downtown, improve the downtown environment and encourage safe and efficient pedestrian travel. The downtown is the multifunctional centre of Edmonton and its region. Joint public/private partnerships are vital to the implementation of these GMP policies.
Downtown Plan Review
Pedway Network
The Planning and Development Department has initiated a major review of the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan. With the plan having been developed during the economic boom of the 1970's, it was deemed necessary to develop a new vision and perhaps a new role for the Downtown. A terms of reference for the project has been prepared and a Steering Committee, comprised of stakeholder groups and citizens has been established. The planning process in 1994 will involve four main steps: the identification of priority issues and a new vision for downtown; the development of ideas and solutions through a Design Charette and Ideas Forum; the preparation of Action Plans through Ad Hoc Working Committees; and the preparation of a new, revised Downtown Plan.
In 1993, a critical link in the Pedway Network - the link between Manulife Place and City Centre - was opened. The Planning and Development Department developed a new mapping system for the network. The new versions of the backlit pedestal maps are more colourful and easier to read and are now produced through an in-house computer system. This not only means a substantial reduction in costs of the maps, it also means that they can be updated more frequently.
(Policy 4.A)
Downtown Housing The Planning and Development Department completed the Downtown Housing Strategy Report. The report was circulated for comments and will be presented to City Council for approval in 1994. A number of the recommendations will be implemented through the Downtown Plan Review exercise, while others will be implemented by a variety of departments and organizations.
(Policies 4.C.1, 4.C.4)
Partnerships
The Downtown Business Associa tion (DBA) and the Edmonton Downtown Development Corporation (EDDC) are the City's two major partners in improving and promoting the downtown. In 1993, the DBA was active in promoting the downtown through advertising, special events and festivals. The EDDC completed restoration on the City owned Goodridge Block (W.W. Arcade Building) with the assistance of provincial and federal government funding. (Policies 4.A.6,
4.B.1, 4.B.2, 4.C.7)
(Policies 4.D.4, 4.D.5) Bikeway Concept Plan The Planning and Development Department has initiated the preparation of a Bikeway Concept Plan for the Downtown area. The intent of the Plan is to establish a continuous circuit of safe, accessible and convenient bicycle mutes traversing the Downtown and connecting with other bikeway facilities in adjacent neighbourhoods. The Plan will propose a demonstration project containing some critical bicycle mutes with additional mutes to be provided as demand increased. The Concept Plan is expected to be presented to Council in early 1994. (Policy 7.A.7)
BeaverhIlls House Park The Parks and Recreation Department redeveloped Beaverhills House Park in order to create better sight lines and a safer environment for users. Major new features include a lowering of the berms, improved fighting, and an entertainment and festival space. (Policy 4.D.1) Major Development Activity Grant MacEwan Community College City Centre Campus was officially opened in November 1993, adding a 7000 student population and 700 employee population to the Downtown. The expansion of Alberta College,
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 6
which consisted of two phases including a concert hall, was also completed. Edmonton's first loft housing project, Excelsior Lofts, was developed in 1993. This project, as well as the opening of the Grant MacEwan College has sparked renewed interest in the development of the warehouse district. (Policies 3.F.1, 4.A.2,
4.A.6, 4.C.1)
Urban Design
SUPPORTING GOOD URBAN DESIGN AND HERITAGE Key GMP objectives include promoting good urban design and beautification, beautifying roadway approaches to the city and downtown and preserving heritage. To create a
positive image of
Edmonton, the Plan considers the aesthetics and visual impact of growth and redevelopment. The Plan proposes both public and private initiatives to improve the citys image. Preserving heritage buildings and areas is also an important contribution to the citys character.
The Planning and Development Department identified urban design opportunities for the Belgravia/McKernan Community Plan and Boyle Street/McCauley ARP. Street enhancements opportunities were identified on McDougall Hill road. These enhancements will be implemented in 1994 as part of the McDougall Hill roadway rehabilitation project. Design work was also completed along the eastside of 100 Street by the Hotel MacDonald. Public improvements were implemented in Rossdale and Cloverdale. This included improvements to Gallagher Park and adjacent 97 Avenue streetscape, street signages and tree planting. Street enhancements were implemented along 104 Avenue, 99 Street and 105 Street in conjunction with Transportation and Public Works roadway rehabilitation projects. The Maintenance Program for special project areas was coordinated, resulting in major improvements in their level of upkeep and maintenance. On Rice Howard Way, a roadclosure bylaw was approved by City Council to close the remaining portion of 101A Avenue in order to enhance the
pedestrian environment. Draft design guidelines for the Avenue of Nations BRZ were prepared containing design concepts and principles which will enhance the business image and vitality of the area. The guidelines will be finalized in 1994 for distribution to developers, property owners and merchants in the area. (Policies 5.A.1, 5.A.3. 5.A.5)
The project will be completed in 1994. (Policy 5.A.3)
Heritage inventory and Management Plan
Integration of Persons with Disabilities
The Planning and Development Department has completed a citywide inventory of all historically and/or architecturally significant sites. The inventory will help determine which sites merit-designation as Municipal Historic Resources. The Department has further completed a Historic Resource Management Plan which outlines the mission statement and procedures involved in planning approvals for Historic Resources. The Inventory and Management Plan will be forwarded to Council early in 1994. (Policies 5.C.1,
A policy ensuring that the needs of people with disabilities will be considered at the early stages of planning city services was adopted by City Council. The "Integration of Persons with Disabilities" policy package was prepared by the Advisory Board on Services for Persons with Disabilities, with assistance from the City Manager's office. Adoption of the policy contributed to the City receiving Star Awards in the areas of Transportation, Recreation and Housing. The awards were pre- sented by the National Access Awareness Week Board of Directors, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and the Department of the Secretary of State. The awards give municipalities an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to accessibility and to the integration of persons with disabilities, and to be recognized
for their accomplishments in these areas. The opening of the Kennedale Facility, which houses the waste management administration staff
of Public Works, marks the first time the consultation process under the Accessibility Policy was used. Staff of Public Works worked in consultation with the Advisory Board on Services for Persons with Disabilities, consultants, architects, contractors and others to ensure the facility is accessible. (Policies 5.D.1, 5.D.2) Low Floor Buses
Safety As part of the Safer City Initiatives program, the Parks and Recreation Department has developed a process to undertake safety audits for parks and facilities. Working with community groups, the process identifies changes to make them safer for public use. The Planning and Development Department has initiated the development of criteria and performance standards for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design.
Edmonton Transit purchased 43 new low floor buses which are now operating on thirteen bus routes in the City. These new buses include a number of features which make them more accessible to persons with mobility impairment. The purchase is a first step in an effort to replace Edmonton's aging bus fleet. (Policy 5.D.1)
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 7
5.C.4) Historic Resource Designation City Council has designated three buildings as Municipal Historic Resources. They are the Goodridge Block (W. W. Arcade Building), Telephone Exchange Building (formerly City of Edmonton Archives Building) and
Molstad House. Through the ef-
forts of a variety of individuals and public groups, the historic Gibson Block (Flat Iron Building) was purchased and then resold to
the Edmonton City Centre Church Corporation. The Corporation will restore and maintain the structure as a women's shelter. (Policies 1.A.4, 5.C.2, 5.C.3, 5.C.4) WinterNet Wintemet (the International Winter Cities Information Exchange Program) is an information and communication network linking communities around the world. It provides an opportunity for sharing experiences, expertise and technologies among municipalities and businesses. WinterNet was developed by the Planning and Development Department and the Association of Mayors of Northern Cities and was activated in 1993 with 30 initial hookups. (Policy 5.A.5)
44.
PROTECTING AGRICULTURE AND THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT The planning approach for agriculture and the natural environment Includes designating agricultural areas, protecting the natural environment of the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravine System, providing recreational and open space opportunities in the River Valley and retaining environmentally sensitive areas.
Natural Areas
Environmental Review
The Planning and Development Department is proceeding with the preparation of a policy to protect environmentally sensitive and significant natural areas on Edmonton's table lands. The consultants retained to carry out the inventory of environmentally sensitive and significant natural areas completed this process by December 1993. A policy development group, composed of representatives from key civic departments and an advisory group composed of public stakeholders have been convened to assist the Planning and Development Department with the development of the policy. (Policies 6.D.1)
A document entitled "A Guide for the City of Edmonton's River Valley Environmental Review Procedures" has been developed by the Planning and Development Department. It provides guidelines for the general public as to how environmental reviews for proposed river valley projects will be undertaken. The Department is also developing a strategy to address environmental review procedures on a larger scale. A new environmental review process will be proposed which will consolidate existing requirements for environmental information and develop guidelines for the application of environmental review to projects outside the river valley.
Environmental Protection
(Policy 6.D.2) Ribbon of Green
The Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act was proclaimed in force in September 1993. To conform with the Act, the Planning and Development Department has developed a Site Contamination Checklist which will be used to determine whether a site may have soil or groundwater contamination problems before the Department purchases property. Land Use Bylaw amendments will be forwarded to Council in early 1994 which will establish new information requirements necessary to process planning approvals for sites with potential contamination.
The Parks and Recreation Department has begun implementation of the Ribbon of Green Master Plan, which was approved by Council in 1992, with the development of trails in Hermitage Park, West Kinsmen, Upper Mill Creek and MacKinnon Ravines. The department also received approval to apply for provincial funding to construct a footbridge over the North Saskatchewan River at Buena Vista Park.
(Policy 6.C.1)
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 8
Transportation Master Plan The Transportation Department has initiated the Transportation Master Plan project to re-examine the City's long-term transportation needs. The project will include a significant amount of public consultation to ensure that the resulting Plan reflects the choices and trade-offs which will be required. (Policies 7.A.1, 7.A.2,
PROVIDING EFFICIENT TRANSPORTATION AND UTILITY SYSTEMS The Plan recognizes the need for an efficient, safe transportation system which supports the Citys socioeconomic and land use development needs.
7.A.3, 7.A.4, 7.A.6, 7.A.7, 7.A.8) Neighbourhood Traffic Planning
Boyle Street/McCauley ARP A Traffic Management Plan is currently being developed as aresuit of issues identified through the ARP and NIP processes. A parking review is also being undertaken, focusing initially on the Little Italy and Chinatown areas. The draft ARP document is presently in circulation for corporate review and comments.
South East Communities Plan ning Coalition - Transportation Conunittee The South East Communities Planning Coalition is working towards the completion of an ARP for the sixteen member communities. The Transportation Department has acted in a resource role with the Transportation Committee during the first half of 1993. Meetings were held in May and June in each community to identify traffic and other issues. A questionnaire, completed at the meetings, was used to obtain input additional input from community residents. Committee representatives have also been working with the trucking industry to resolve truck route issues in the Coalition area.
Central McDougall ARP The Transportation and Planning and Development Departments have been working with area representatives to assess redevelopment proposals for the Prince of Wales Armoury site, prior to undertaking ARP activities.
Argyll/Hazeldean/Ritchie Traffic Management Plan The Hazeldean Traffic Committee, comprised of community residents, businesses and representatives from the Transportation Department, has developed a Traffic Management Plan to address shortcutting, speeding and other transportation issues. Three open houses, followed by meetings in each community, were held in the Fall to finalize traffic plan proposals. The Plan will be submitted for Council approval early in 1994, with implementation of initial plan components anticipated in the Spring. (Policy
7.A.2) South LRT The City of Edmonton reached an agreement with ten South Campus Area Stakeholder groups for an at-grade LRT alignment. The agreement allows more detailed planning and design work for the ultimate construction of the South LRT link. Stakeholders will continue to have opportunities for
input during this work. (Policies 7.A.1, 7.A.3, 7.A.4, 7.A.5, 7.A.8)
Opening of WhItemud Drive (106 Street - 99 Street) Construction of the final set of overpasses on Whitemud Drive was completed. Traffic may now proceed from 34 Street to 178 Street on a free-flow facility.
(Policies 7.A.1, 7.A.3, 7.A.4, 7.A.6) Fort Road Reconstruction A Master Plan for the Fort Road Business Revitalization Zone was completed. This initiates a set of strategic steps for revitalization of the area. Some aspects of the Master Plan will be incorporated in the reconstruction of Fort Road, which is planned for 1995.
(Policies 7.A.1, 7.A.4)
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 9
Joint Planning Study of the Highway 2 Corridor The Planning and Development Department, the County of Leduc, the City of Leduc and the Edmonton Regional Airport Authority are preparing a joint planning study for the Highway 2 corridor. The objective of the planning study is to produce guidelines which will reinforce the role of the Edmonton International Airport, facilitate future development of the Highway 2 corridor for transportation, utility and communications purposes and support the development of industrial parks along the corridor. The guidelines will address improving the appearance of the Highway 2 corridor as a major gateway to metropolitan Edmonton, and protecting the area's natural environment and better agricultural land. The three municipal Councils and the ERAA Board of Directors reviewed a draft guidelines report in December 1993. A final report is scheduled for 1994. (Policies 7.B.2, 7.B.5)
Clarevlew Land Exchange Edmonton Transit completed the Clareview Land Exchange. The acquired site is located on the west side of the LRT right-of-way opposite the Clareview LRT Station. The future development of a bus terminal on this site will be considered in CPP deliberations to set timing for development. (Policies
7.A.1, 7.A.3, 7.A.6)
Looking Forward to 1994 Many of the priorities outlined in this summary report will continue in 1994. While the GMP provides the planning framework, various other plans and activities support GMP objectives and policies. The focus in 1994 will be on inner city initiatives, suburban growth issues, the downtown, the environment and transportation planning. The successful achievement of GMP goals will continue to rely on a coordinated, corporate approach. This document provides many examples of civic departments working collectively on priority initiatives.
Inner City
Environment
The renewal of inner city neighbourhoods remains the top civic priority as identified by the GM -P. In 1994, City departments will continue to work with residents and interest groups to revitalize special needs areas. Departments will focus on both specific physical neighbourhood concerns and socio-economic issues.
Environmental concerns continue to be an important planning issue. Land Use Bylaw amendments will be forwarded to Council in 1994 to establish new planning approval procedures for sites with potential environmental contamination. A new environmental review process will be proposed for projects outside the river valley. Now that the inventory of natural areas has been completed, work can continue on a draft policy to protect natural and environmentally sensitive areas on Edmonton's table lands.
Suburban Planning Suburban growth issues will remain on the forefront in 1994. An interdepartmental Strategy for Infrastructure group has been set up. The group will look at infrastructure standards, levels of services and alternative funding standards.
Downtown The Planning and Development Department is continuing the major review of the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan. A Steering Committee, comprised of stakeholder groups and citizens, will be involved in the identification of priority issues and new vision for the downtown. Work will proceed on the issues identified by the Committee.
Transportation Transportation issues will figure prominently in 1994. The Transportation Department has initiated the Transportation Master Plan project, which examines the City's long-term transportation needs. Various neighbourhood traffic plans will be forwarded to City Council for approval.
1993 Initiatives Supporting the Edmonton General Municipal Plan Page 10