(Cochrane, AB) – Over the past year, Cochrane residents have shared more than 1,000 responses on their priorities for the future in a comprehensive engagement process for the Envision Cochrane 2050 plan. This plan is a Municipal Development Plan, which outlines our vision for how we would like our community to evolve and change over the next 25 to 50 years. It sets the goals, priorities and strategic direction for land use, transportation, parks, servicing and more.
Community input has now been incorporated in an initial draft of the plan, which is available for review and feedback until August 18.
“Envision Cochrane 2050 reflects our hopes for the future, in balance with local realities, values and priorities,” says Drew Hyndman, Executive Director, Development & Infrastructure Services for the Town of Cochrane. “This plan is one of our most important planning documents. It will help address issues like where our homes, offices, businesses and services are located in the coming years, as well as guiding important community priorities like safety, natural spaces, transportation, arts, the economy, and more.”
The first phase of engagement for the plan, Envisioning Cochrane’s Future, was focused on generating a vision, and included questions on Cochrane’s identity, livability, open spaces and natural areas, vibrant economy and connectivity. In Phase 2, Planning Cochrane’s Future, residents were able to provide feedback in specific areas including arts and culture, parks and recreation, natural areas and economic vitality.
Now, in Phase 3 of the Envision Cochrane 2050 engagement process, Cochrane residents can visit letstalkcochrane.ca/envision to review the draft plan in its entirety, or choose specific draft policy sections to read and provide feedback.
There are many opportunities to participate in Phase 3:
- Review the plan at letstalkcochrane.ca/envision
- Complete the survey online or fill out a paper copy at engagement displays at The Station, the SLS Centre and the RancheHouse
- Participate in community conversations being held at locations like the Farmers’ Market at the SLS Centre (July 27), Cochrane Food Fest at Mitford Park (August 11) and an evening indoors at the SLS Centre (August 15)
When Phase 3 engagement closes August 18, the plan will be refined based on community feedback. The Envision Cochrane 2050 plan is scheduled to be finalized and presented to Council later in 2024.
“We’re hoping Cochrane residents will take advantage of the opportunity to review the plan and ensure it provides an effective roadmap to a vibrant, aspirational and healthy future,” Hyndman adds.