Cochranites being asked to participate in extensive surveys to determine what they want from their parks and cultural activities got a glimpse of the first stage of that process at the Committee of the Whole meeting Feb.3 un council chambers.
Recognizing the vital role parks, culture, and active living play in fostering a vibrant, connected, and healthy community, the Town of Cochrane presented their initial findings from Phase one, (completed in late 2024) of the Parks, Culture, and Active Living Master Plan. This comprehensive strategic plan will provide direction for future investments, policies, and services over the next decade.
The goal of the master plan, as outlined by Michelle Delorme, Director of Parks and Active Living at the Town, is “ensuring Cochrane remains a desirable place to live, work, and recreate.”
So far, the focus is on gathering broad community input through diverse methods. Delorme’s report summarized findings from over 2,800 participant interactions.
To meet the needs of its growing population, Cochrane initiated the engagement process, designed to be inclusive, providing opportunities for all residents and stakeholder groups to participate and share their vision.
The "What We Heard Report" for Phase One presents the initial findings, capturing community perspectives on existing facilities, desired improvements, and long-term aspirations.
Phase 2 will be Priorities – It will identify and prioritize specific projects and initiatives.
Phase 3 will be the Master Plan Development and Review, which will finalize the plan based on community and stakeholder input. Between phases one and two of engagement, additional engagement will happen with community groups, focus groups, administration and Council to further explore needs, priorities, and opportunities.
Under the heading Community Requests, the report cited a high demand for more cultural enrichment programs, like festivals, live music and food events. Others wanted to see more spaces for visual arts and performing arts, including amphitheatres and art exhibits.
Respondents also wanted expanded recreational facilities for things like biking, climbing, and snowshoeing, squash, pickleball, and soccer, as well as spaces for unstructured activities.
Intergenerational programming was also identified as a need – spaces for youth, adults, and seniors to engage together.
Nature-based/conservation education was identified by some as an area of growth.
Some of the other highlights identified so far were:
Pop-Up Events were popular. Active transportation is widely used for leisure; participants support improved cycling and pedestrian pathways.
Program Preferences: Requests included cultural events, youth programs, and expanded recreational facilities.
The resident survey on activity participation indicated high engagement with trails (81 per cent), parks (70 per cent), and cultural events (81 per cent).
Barriers to participation include scheduling conflicts, affordability, and facility availability.
Satisfaction Levels: 85 per cent satisfied with trail quality; lower satisfaction with affordability and indoor amenities; values: strong agreement on the importance of safe pathways and parks for health and well-being (89 per cent); favorite trails were praised for natural beauty and connectivity; concerns highlighted safety at crossings and maintenance issues like steep gradients and damaged pathways, and, enhancement requests focused on improved accessibility, better connections, and dedicated cycling infrastructure.
