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Your turn: Rossdale, Westmount, and Stony Plain


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This week's batch of calls for public engagement includes a public hearing for new special zones in Rossdale, feedback opportunities on a rezoning application in Westmount, and community parties about municipal development in Stony Plain.

The City of Edmonton's real estate and land development branch has proposed rezoning two parcels of land in Rossdale to new special zones under the area redevelopment plan. The area is generally bounded by Rossdale Road, 97 Avenue, 105 Street, and 102 Street and is set to be developed as part of the River Crossing Community Redevelopment Project. The parcels include the gravel lots that have typically been used for parking during Edmonton Riverhawks games, but also extend north to surround the ArtsHub Ortona building. City council will debate the rezoning at a public hearing on June 23.

The proposed zones would allow for a built form that is similar to what is currently allowed, with the exception of special setback requirements. The rezoning would allow for a building of up to 15 storeys on the northwest portion of the site, an increase from the current limit of 12 storeys, and a larger footprint would be permitted. The current zoning allows up to seven storeys on the east and south portions of the site, which would not change.

These changes require special zones because the planning objectives of the area cannot be achieved through standard zoning, administration said. The proposal also outlines a road network among the future developments. If approved, the road in front of Re/Max Field would be deemed a retail street with a minimum of 30% non-residential uses. The application also proposes pedestrian alleys that have individual unit entrances.

The first phase of the redevelopment will include the construction of a new road at 102 Street between 96 Avenue and 97 Avenue, signalization of the intersection at 102 Street and 97 Avenue, reconstruction of the road in front of Re/Max Field, and new infrastructure.

The city recently collected feedback on neighbourhood renewal in Rossdale, which will see roads and sidewalks upgraded to modern standards. The final design is set to be presented to the community in winter.

The Edmonton River Valley Conservation Coalition is hosting a walk and talk on June 20 to discuss the area's Indigenous and settler history as the area faces redevelopment. Organizers invite residents to "learn why this area is so important historically, culturally, and ecologically, and why it should be designated a historic place and protected rather than rezoned for condos at a public hearing."

An aerial view of the Rossdale neighbourhood showing the rezoning area

Council is set to hear from the public about a rezoning application for part of the River Crossing Community Redevelopment Project. (City of Edmonton)

Here are some other opportunities to provide input in the Edmonton metro region:

"Your turn" is Taproot's weekly collection of public engagement opportunities in the Edmonton region. Watch this space every week for opportunities to make your views known. If you know of a request for public input, send it to hello@taprootedmonton.ca.