In collaboration with the Old Strathcona Business Association (OSBA), we have launched a joint letter writing campaign advocating for Edmonton City Councillors to advance the Old Strathcona Public Realm Strategy (OSPRS) and move forward with next steps for funding and implementation of the strategy.
The proposed strategy will bring much needed improvements to aging and deteriorating infrastructure, public spaces like parks and plazas, and enhance the vibrancy, economic vitality, and productivity of one of Edmonton’s busiest main streets.
This letter writing campaign provides area residents, patrons, and business owners an opportunity to voice their support of the OSPRS to Edmonton City Councillors ahead of the strategy’s presentation at Council’s Urban Planning Committee on October 8, 2024.
We believe passing this strategy is a crucial commitment to long-term investment in public spaces and infrastructure and will enhance the vibrancy of Old Strathcona for current and future residents, businesses, and visitors. Old Strathcona and Whyte Avenue have not been renewed since the 1980s, meaning the infrastructure along Whyte Avenue has remained unchanged for more than 40 years. Right now, sidewalks on Whyte Ave are crumbling and curbs falling apart. The state of infrastructure on this vibrant and bustling main street is making the area increasingly inaccessible to community members and visitors who are exploring by foot and those using mobility aids or pushing strollers.
The letter requests City Council to consider five key action items:
- to advance the Old Strathcona Public Realm Strategy;
- to create a plan to alleviate parking anxiety through wayfinding tools;
- to pedestrianize 83rd Avenue between 103-104 Street;
- to accelerate implementation; and
- to allocate capital funding.
These five key actions align with the goals outlined in The City Plan, and will prepare the area for the expected near-term growth as Edmonton’s population grows to 1.25 million, with Whyte Ave/99th Street identified as a Priority Growth Area.
Looking for more ways to support the strategy?
You can sign up to speak in-person or virtually in support of the strategy at the City’s Urban Planning Committee meeting taking place on October 8, 2024 at City Hall.
It is clear that the City of Edmonton cannot afford to let this strategy sit on the shelf and collect dust, so let’s take action and have our voices heard!
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