The Town of Cochrane is taking a ‘collective’ approach when it comes to how the look and feel of the downtown core will mature going into the future.
Setting up shop until the end of February, town staff are hoping residents pay a visit to their temporary downtown location to provide their input into what they want to see developed in and around the Quarry site, and how that will be integrated into historic downtown.
“There are some residents who seek the same amenities that a major city offers,” said Jared Kassel, manager of development services with the town, adding that many Cochranites will no longer have to commute into Calgary for certain services. “A lot see the good in that.”
Kassel said a primary concern for many he has heard from thus far is ensuring any new development is accessible, not just by vehicle, but also by foot.
Kassel has also been told by several residents that what they love about Cochrane is its small-town character, and that it’s important to maintain the historical significance, despite demands for an ever-evolving and growing community.
Striving for as much input as possible, Kassel said the town plans to alter the hours people can visit their downtown office location, as they were hoping for a little more foot traffic than what they have seen.
“There’s nothing like having a conversation with somebody,” said Kassel, referring to the various avenues residents can submit their opinions on the Quarry site development, including Facebook and Twitter. “It adds value.”
Kassel said the reason the town chose to open an office location was that they did not simply want to receive comments from residents, but rather have them re-visit the location in person after they had discussed the issue further and made up their minds on what they did and did not want to see developed.
The area in question encompasses the Quarry site and parcels of land to the northwest; all of which will utilize the Community Revitaliza-tion Levy funds, approved by the province earlier this month.
Starting today (Jan. 23), the town’s downtown office hours will be as follows: Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Wednesday from 3-9 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and closed on Monday and Friday.
Kassel said the new hours would hopefully provide more time for those who commute into Calgary for work to provide their vision for downtown Cochrane.
The location of the town’s temporary office is 212, First Street West. They opened their doors Jan. 10.
Visit cochranedowntown.ca for more information.
