(Cochrane, AB) – As a part of the multi-phase study taking place to assess the overall environmental health of Jim Uffelmann Memorial Park, Cochrane community members are invited to provide their feedback on the future of this beloved park space. An online community survey is now available on Let’s Talk Cochrane.
Open to the public until May 22, the survey allows Cochranites and park users the opportunity to share insights and provide feedback around current and future uses of the popular multi-purpose park.
“Recognizing Jim Uffelmann Memorial Park’s significance and importance within the community, we wanted to ensure that Cochranites have the opportunity to voice their opinions and provide valuable feedback,” says Mitch Hamm, Director of Community Services, Town of Cochrane. “The intent of this work is to nurture a space that serves the community today, while ensuring it remains a space for future generations to enjoy.”
In 2018, the park was officially named after long-time Cochranite, avid outdoorsman, cyclist, dog owner and off-leash activist, Jim Uffelmann. Located adjacent to the Bow River, the 10-acre Jim Uffelmann Memorial Park extends from River Avenue to northeast of the Spray Lake Sawmills Centre. As one of Cochrane’s most popular multi-purpose parks, it serves many different community members and hosts a multitude of activities including pathways for walking and cycling, a designated off-leash area, open park space and multiple river access points.
As a space enjoyed by many, varied challenges and environmental concerns have been identified in recent years – including mixed usage, bank erosion and environmental issues. This, in conjunction with the alignment to Council’s Strategic Plan, led to the decision to work with extremal consultant, EDS Group Inc., to assess the park’s overall health.
The data and feedback collected during the six-phase study will be presented to Council in the late fall 2023, providing further insight and recommendations on potential opportunities for the future of the park. For more information or to fill out the survey, visit Letstalkcochrane.ca/uffelmannparkstudy.