The Envision Cochrane public engagement project has completed its lengthy campaign to solicit opinions from residents over what they see in the town’s future.
Public feedback for this project has been extensive, comprising a total of 14 weeks of engagement over three phases between September 2023 and September 2024.
The results were summarized for Town Council at a Committee of the Whole meeting Oct.21. Committee of the Whole meetings are designed to present information only – no detailed discussion takes place until later in the process.
The third phase of engagement was informed by the first two phases of engagement. Phase three ran to Aug. 18.
Below is a summary of Cochrane residents’ feedback on the eleven Envision Cochrane 2050 topic areas:
Growth: While participants recognize the value in housing and economic development opportunities related to growth, there were concerns about the pace of growth, with many residents suggesting a “managed,” “sustainable,” or “slow” approach to growth.
Land Use: The preservation and enhancement of natural areas, despite areas of growth and development, is a priority for residents. Participants wish to see green spaces protected, with higher density growth concentrated or constrained to certain areas in Cochrane.
Community Design: Participants expressed a desire for design that is multi generational, multi-cultural and accessible, and considers the character of Cochrane.
Housing: Participants suggested that supportive housing options (e.g., shelters) would be welcomed in Cochrane, and expressed concern about the impact of higher density housing development.
Parks, Recreation and Natural Areas: These spaces are highly-appreciated; participants shared ideas for amenities and facilities they would like to see more often, and reiterated the importance of protecting natural areas.
Arts and Culture: Participants expressed an interest in and support for Cochrane’s arts and culture scene, and would like to see more arts and culture events and facilities in the future.
Community and Protective Services: Local healthcare options (e.g., 24-hour urgent care) was identified as an urgent need, as well as schools and protective services in centralized locations.
Mobility: Improved pedestrian, cycling and public transit networks are identified as a priority for Cochrane residents, with additional comments about road connectivity and capacity to alleviate traffic congestion.
Servicing: Participants emphasized the importance of increasing servicing prior to enabling growth and adding new residents in Cochrane.
Economic Development: Participants are in agreement with the Envision Cochrane 2050’s objective to support small businesses and local commercial centres.
Implementation: To achieve the vision set out in the plan, participants wish to see community feedback and involvement prioritized in the implementation process, as well as growth that supports existing community members.
Growth selected comments:
Preference for growth to be slow, managed and sustainable; request for enhanced infrastructure that is in place prior to population growth to meet new demand; ensure the protection and enhancement of natural areas during development; prioritize connectivity between and within communities through roadways, transit, and active transportation (i.e., cycling, walking).
In Fall 2024, the project team will use the feedback collected to make adjustments to the planning policy and to create a final Envision Cochrane 2050 plan.
Once approved, Envision Cochrane 2050 will provide clear direction about Cochrane’s land use, growth, housing and much more. The high level document will serve as a guide for long range planning and the Municipal Development Plan.
First reading of the full report will come at the next regular Council meeting Oct. 28 followed by a public hearing Nov. 25. Council will have an opportunity to provide any comments before it is circulated for the Public Hearing. If additional time is needed the Dec. 2 Committee of the Whole meeting is also available.
Second reading then comes Dec. 9, when council will have a more fulsome discussion, incorporating what was heard at the public hearing.
An anonymous resident suggested a slogan for the town, which seemed to garner support from some councillors: “Cochrane – At Home in the Hills.”
