Due to last-minute concerns from the Town of Chestermere and the City of Calgary, Rocky View County (RVC) has delayed the release of the draft Conrich Area Structure Plan (ASP). The plan, which has been in the works since Oct. 2013, encompasses an area east of Calgary and north of Chestermere.
An ASP provides guidelines around the future development of a particular area or community, setting out proposed land uses, population densities, open spaces, roadways, and community services. The Conrich draft was scheduled to be released to the public on Dec. 10, but according to RVC, Calgary and Chestermere officials expressed concerns with the plan only days before the open house.
“Calgary is concerned with the timing and funding sources of the flyovers proposed to cross Stoney Trail,” said Richard Barss, RVC senior planner. “They are concerned that if these are not built, it will impact their transportation network.”
According to Barss, RVC anticipates that the flyovers are developer-funded and would be built “when demand requires.” However, he said the County has agreed to do additional modeling and may consider policy changes to address the concern.
“Chestermere is concerned with the amount of Regional Commercial development proposed along Highway 1,” Barss said. “(RVC) recognizes there are significant amounts of commercial land, but notes the Conrich ASP will take 30 plus years to build out.”
He added the County believes the ASP land use strategy is consistent with planning direction as far back as 2004, with the adoption of the existing Calgary-Chestermere Corridor ASP.
“We are meeting with our respective administrations to determine if a compromise can be reached, which may involve revisions,” Barss said. “The County shares its borders with 13 other cities and towns, and two first nations. We’re not strangers to co-operation, and we’re very proud of our efforts in working together to make the region a great place to live, work, and play.”
In addition to the Municipal Government Act’s requirement that adjoining municipalities work together on statutory plans, RVC has identified partnerships as a key principle within the County Plan. Whenever an ASP borders another jurisdiction, Barss said the County works co-operatively with those municipalities to develop a plan.
According to Barss, the land within the Conrich ASP would share infrastructure connections with the two municipalities, as well.
“Roads, pathways, and stormwater systems, either existing or planned, must perform in an integrated fashion to be successful,” he said.
“This plan is still a priority, but we have to respect the process – which involves other municipalities. We are hopeful for an early resolution.”
