Community invited to share feedback on downtown upgrades

Using valuable input gathered from business and community feedback this past summer, the Town is ready to share more information on the Downtown’s Next Chapter initiative. The community is encouraged to get involved by attending the open house, or engaging online, to learn more and provide further input on the projects.

“Enhancing our downtown with more accessible, welcoming spaces that reflect our community’s unique spirit is an exciting opportunity for all of us,” said Okotoks Mayor Tanya Thorn. “Public input is essential to making this vision a reality, and we invite everyone to participate by sharing their ideas and feedback. Together, we’re building a downtown we can all be proud of.” 

Join Us for Drop-in Style Open House and Online Engagement 
The Town is dedicated to keeping business and residents informed and engaged. All impacted and interested community members are invited to attend. The drop-in style Open House is November 13, 2024 and will provide the opportunity to explore project updates, ask questions and share feedback.

When: 8:30 – 10:30 am OR 4:30 – 7:30 pm
Where: Bow Valley College, 7 Riverside Drive

For those that cannot attend the in-person event, online engagement will be available November 13 - 26, 2024 by clicking the button below.
Share Your Thoughts

Infrastructure
Deep utilities require upgrading on the North Railway Street portion of Main Street. 

Streetscape 
Public areas such as sidewalks, boulevards, trees and landscaping to boost pedestrian safety and the downtown experience will be improved.  

Triangle & Pisttoo Parks
These parks will be enhanced and integrated into streetscape improvements to create welcoming and inclusive spaces for all community members. 

Schedule and Phasing
Beginning in spring 2025, the work, expected to take two years to complete, will be done in phases. Phase 1A: Elm Place to Alberta Avenue; Phase 1B: Alberta Avenue to McRae Street.

Construction Impact on Local Businesses and Residents
This summer, the Town gathered feedback from business owners, operators and residents to understand their construction concerns. The findings and draft recommendations will be shared during the upcoming engagement for further community discussion.

Our Plan for Downtown
The Town is consolidating existing policies related to the downtown into a single document – Our Plan for Downtown, formally known as an Area Redevelopment Plan. This plan will guide the redevelopment of private and public spaces in the downtown area.

The Town engaged with the community on existing policies and other foundational aspects this summer. Based on the feedback, we have developed further ideas to share with you, including an updated vision and principles along with guidance around the different areas of downtown.

A What We Learned Report from the earlier engagement, and all project and community engagement information, is available on the project website at: www.shapeourtown.okotoks.ca/downtown. Community members are encouraged to visit the page to learn more.

Through this important work, we are committed to elevating our downtown into a thriving gathering space that supports local businesses, fosters community pride and promotes vitality and economic growth. These major downtown projects will also encourage placemaking and improve safety and accessibility. Together, let’s shape the future of our downtown!