2.3 Responding to Brampton’s Growth Profile Library facilities are built, staffed and programmed in accordance with the needs of the population that are served. As the number and the socioeconomic characteristics of people living in Brampton changes, Brampton Library will need to be in a position to respond if residents are to obtain the various benefits that the Library brings. Similarly, the City of Brampton is charting a new vision for how it envisions the planning and development of the built environment and Brampton Library will be an important player in terms of the quality of life that is being pursued. Keeping Pace with Population Growth The Statistics Canada Census recorded Brampton as Canada’s ninth largest city by population, and the fourth largest city in Ontario. Between the 2001 and 2016 Census periods, Brampton’s annual population growth rate of 4% has exceeded many other large GTA municipalities including Vaughan, Markham, and Mississauga. Growth statistics demonstrate the considerable rate of change in Brampton’s population compared to when the previous Library Facilities Master Plan was prepared. The year 2021 population estimate of 698,000 persons for the City of Brampton means that there are now 156,000 more people living in Brampton (a 29% growth rate, averaging nearly 3% per year) compared to when the previous Facilities Master Plan was approved in 2011. Significant and continue population growth is forecasted over the current master planning period with a year 2026 forecast of 789,000 persons and a year 2031 forecast of 854,000 persons, thereby adding 156,000 persons over the next 10 years. 6 The Brampton 2040 Vision identifies the beginnings of a desired urban structure whereby a new ‘Uptown’ and a revitalized Downtown are the hearts of the city, and are accompanied by five ‘Town Centres’. From the perspective of Brampton Library, these identified nodes are important as they will concentrate residents and employment opportunities where the Library can play a pivotal role. Just as importantly, the Library can form an integral part of other civic transformations envisioned through the Brampton 2040 Vision such as complete and connected communities, a thriving arts scene, and social and health harmony.
There are an estimated 698,000 presently living in the City of Brampton, representing growth of 156,000 persons compared to 2011 when the previous Library Facilities Master Plan was approved. Another 156,000 persons are forecasted to be added to the City’s population during the 10-year planning period for the current Library Facilities Master Plan, to reach a projected population of 854,000 by 2031.
The upcoming 2021 Census will provide further insights with respect to the accuracy of current population estimates while updating a number of socio-demographic indicators that will be discussed in the paragraphs that follow. Brampton Library will need to consider the release of 2021 Census data in the months and years to come to determine how they may affect the Library FMP and the Library’s ongoing facility development strategy.
Library Facilities Master Plan Monteith Brown Planning Consultants Ltd. + Perkins & Will
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