Edmonton's Suburbs Thrive at Expense of City's Mature Neighbourhoods

[lisa]

Despite its continuing sprawl, there are no plans for Edmonton to contain itself any time soon. Its thriving downtown has not been enough to stop the continuing exodus to the hinterlands, with large houses and plentiful back yards.

Even age thirty-something members of Edmonton's Next Gen Committee admit that urban life is great until the arrival of children, when the suburbs beckon with their cheaper houses, Edmonton Personal Tax Accountant good schools and recreational areas.

The attractions of suburban living are growing, as recreational centres are being built outside of the city at the expense of smaller urban facilities. Also, city schools are closing, while suburban schools are opening at faster rates.

According to Edmonton's Municipal Development Plan, some 75 percent of upcoming population expansion will take place in an increasing array of suburbs outside the Henday Drive area.

The MDP attempts to assess the benefits and limitations of new suburbs before development begins, but the sprawl continues unabated.

While Edmonton's boundaries will inevitably grow, the city needs to find ways to retain and attract residents. With a host of mature neighbourhoods, tax or development incentives should be offered to repopulate them.

The addition of younger families can revitalize dormant areas. City services already exist in these older neighbourhoods. Schools exist, but cannot survive unless they accommodate enough enthusiastic children and parents.

Other suggestions include possible grant programs to re-light dark streets, clean up neighbourhoods and build playgrounds. Improving existing areas can only lead not only to urban vitality, but also to increasing property values.