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County approves parks and trails plan

Council unanimously approved Rocky View County’s Parks and Open Space Master Plan, May 31. The document is a 25-year plan that will help the County make decisions about future open spaces, parks and trails.

Council unanimously approved Rocky View County’s Parks and Open Space Master Plan, May 31.

The document is a 25-year plan that will help the County make decisions about future open spaces, parks and trails.

“This document is a great tool and will help guide us to make sustainable choices for planning our open spaces for residents to enjoy,” said Reeve Rolly Ashdown. “We are fortunate to have such a vast county, with easy access to outdoor amenities. With our growth, it is important to put a plan into place and ensure we responsibly preserve and provide welcoming outdoor spaces for our residents.”

The plan was created with input from residents, community groups and organizations and many neighbouring municipal partners. Three open houses and three workshops were held from June to November 2010. In addition, input was collected through an online survey and mail-in surveys. The plan divides the County into topographically unique regions and provides recommendations for each area on parks and open spaces, pathways and trails, cultural resources, river access and niche markets.

The plan’s overreaching vision states, “Rocky View County’s diverse network of parks and open spaces are accessible, connected, inviting and safe. They enrich our quality of life through natural area preservation, education and partnerships while offering exciting recreational opportunities. They both connect and cultivate our communities.”

The plan also identifies strategies to ensure wildlife habitat is protected and trails and public access have minimal impact on nature.

The document includes recommendations on how to manage park and open space systems to ensure specific outcomes are addressed such as social needs, trail design options and standards, demographic considerations and future open space acquisitions. County councillors were generally in favour of the plan, although some concern was raised about potential cost to Rocky View and the possibility of unused trails.

“It would take a tremendous amount of money and effort to put together a parks department county wide,” said Councillor Greg Boehlke, adding that future amenities would make more sense in more populated areas.

Councillor Rick Butler liked the plan.

“This is an aspirational plan,” said Butler. “We are not building it right away, we’re building it as we can.”

To view the entire 111 page document, visit www.rockyview.ca


Airdrie Today Staff

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