(Cochrane, AB) – At this evening’s Council meeting, Council gave third reading to Bylaw 24/2024, adopting Envision Cochrane 2050 (EC2050) as Cochrane’s new Municipal Development Plan. This milestone completes a comprehensive two-year planning process, involving extensive public engagement, resulting in a community plan that addresses Cochrane's rapid growth and plans for development over the next 25 to 50 years.
"Envision Cochrane 2050 represents a collective vision for our community's future," said Mike Derricott, Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Cochrane. "This plan reflects the values, priorities and aspirations shared by our residents and will guide Cochrane's growth in a sustainable and thoughtful manner for decades to come."
The foundation of the EC2050 development process was its level of public participation. Over a 12-month period, Cochrane conducted three phases of public engagement, gathering 2,105 responses – representing approximately 5.6% of Cochrane's population.
The three-phase engagement approach included:
Phase 1 (September-October 2023): Focused on community vision and values, exploring how residents wanted to see Cochrane evolve over the next 25-50 years.
Phase 2 (February-March 2024): Gathered feedback on specific areas including parks and recreation, open spaces, arts and culture, economic vitality, and urban design.
Phase 3 (July-August 2024): Invited public review and comment on the draft EC2050 document, alongside focused feedback sessions with Town departments and the Developer Liaison Group.
"We extend our sincere appreciation to Cochrane residents, community organizations and businesses for participating in the two-year process through the public engagement opportunities,” said Mark Krysinski, Director of Community Growth. "The diverse perspectives we received helped create a municipal development plan that truly reflects the community, defining its vision for the future allowing generations to live, learn, work and retire in a complete community."
In consideration of Council’s community aspirations, EC2050 upholds the five key pillars of the Cochrane Strategic Plan (2022):
Identity: Preserving Cochrane's unique landscape and character
Open Spaces and Natural Areas: Protecting and enhancing natural environments
Livability: Creating vibrant, active, and connected neighborhoods
Vibrant Economy: Fostering an atmosphere where modern businesses can thrive
Connectivity: Bringing people together both physically and socially
The plan incorporates policies to guide Cochrane's growth and development while maintaining its distinctive character and enhancing quality of life for all residents.
With the formal adoption of EC2050, Cochrane Administration will begin the comprehensive implementation of the plan's policies and strategies across all municipal operations. This implementation extends beyond the planning department, as EC2050 will serve as the guiding framework for all organizational master plans, departmental strategies, and day-to-day municipal operations.
"Envision Cochrane 2050 is not intended to sit on a shelf," adds Derricott. "It will influence many aspects of our municipal work — from parks and recreation planning to infrastructure development, economic initiatives and community services."
The plan includes ongoing tracking mechanisms to monitor progress, measure outcomes and allow for strategic updates as needed, ensuring it remains a living document that evolves with community needs. Regular reporting to Council and the public will provide transparency on how EC2050's goals are being achieved.
For more information about Envision Cochrane 2050 or to view the complete document, visit cochrane.ca/envision.
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