NeighbourhoodRenewalProgram

Edmonton's neighbourhood renewal program began in 2009 with the intent of renewing four to five neighbourhoods a year. A new report shows that if the $159 million a year budget for repaving roads, replacing curbs, gutters, sidewalks, improving landscaping and street lighting if the program was reduced by 25 per cent the city could save $40 million a year. After a discussion at urban planning committee Tuesday, it was thought the option would be unlikely to get council's endorsement. Ward Anirniq councillor Erin Rutherford thinks cutting or delaying the program would just kink the can down the road for future city councils to deal with.

First, it was residents of Ottewell that voiced their displeasure with the renewal project underway in their neighbourhood. Now, many residents of the northeast Hairsine neighbourhood have joined the chorus of those displeased with the City's neighbourhood renewal projects.

Ottewell, one of Edmonton's largest neighbourhoods, is the scene of a massive reconstruction program to replace its roads, sidewalks, gutters and street lights. This is year 2 of a 4 year project and many residents have become frustrated with road closures and detours which cut off access to some homes. According to city literature, the neighbourhood renewal program "balances the need to rebuild in some neighbourhoods with a preventive maintenance approach in others."