Public input sought on redevelopment plans for Stanley Park
Calgary, AB – The Stanley Park redevelopment initiative has entered its final phase of public engagement. Calgarians are being asked to review the proposed redevelopment and management plan for the park on Saturday, Nov. 23, from 1-4 p.m. at the Parkhill/Stanley Park Community Hall (4013 Stanley Road S.W.).
Over the past year, The City of Calgary Parks has consulted both internal and external stakeholders about changes to the park. The initiative has been undertaken to accommodate increasing numbers of park visitors, enhance the visitor experience, boost Stanley Park’s environmental health, and identify much needed lifecycle upgrades and replacements.
“A number of development interests within the park created the need for a comprehensive redevelopment plan to balance competing interests,” says Keath Parker, Parks planning manager. “Along with the need to address aging infrastructure and conflicts on pathways and playgrounds, expansion requests from user groups – including rugby, lawn bowling and the community association – created the need for comprehensive public engagement on redevelopment of the park.”
Parker says the last time a master plan was developed for the park was in 1986, making the plan almost 30 years old and out of date.
“We are pleased to present the finalized concept and management plan for this park, which will be submitted to City Council for approval and budget consideration next year,” said Parker. “We believe we have developed a plan that reflects the opinions of Calgarians, and we would like to present it to citizens on Saturday.”
The plan calls for retaining well-loved features of Stanley Park such as the swimming pool and playing fields, while meeting the increasing demands placed on the park from a growing population. Parking capacity will be reconfigured and increased to improve circulation. The regional pathway will also be realigned, and the picnic area and playgrounds will be expanded.
“The plan will see the development of a new ‘hub’ that will create a focal point for activities in the park,” says Parker.
Citizens are encouraged to review the finalized plan by attending the open house on Saturday. Information presented will be posted on Calgary.ca following the open house for those unable to attend.
The City values input from citizens and seeks their opinion to ensure development plans reflect the voice of Calgarians prior to going to Council.
Please visit the Stanley Park redevelopment initiative web page for more information.
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