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As Edmonton's population and skyline continually expand, it's never been more important for residents to be attuned to the city's planning process, which may seem like an arcane nightmare to the uninitiated. In an effort to educate and engage the populace on a variety of topical planning subjects — and prove that the process isn't quite as intimidating as one may think — the City's enlightening Planning Academy is returning for another season.
Courses will be held in the new Edmonton Tower, an appropriate venue for learning about the changing face of the cityscape. From April 29 to June 17, the City will be offering another round of classroom-style Planning Academy courses while online modules are developed. Designed to help Edmontonians better understand the planning and development process, and increase participation in planning and development matters within the City, the Academy includes seven facilitated $30 courses that each provide unique perspectives on a specific issue.
Individuals can enrol in any number of courses they choose. Three of the seven courses examine the broader strokes of urban planning, with the first providing a general introduction to land use before delving into how cities around the world have historically developed, especially in contrast to the Edmonton experience. The second course — Getting a Grip on Land Use Planning — takes a closer look at the development and zoning process in the city, studying how planners implement regulations while considering the interests of multiple stakeholders. The third course — Come Plan With Us: Using Your Voice — outlines how people can directly involve themselves in the planning process to support or oppose development projects. The interactive course will give participants the opportunity to learn how to make effective presentations to Council and then demonstrate their knowledge.
The remaining courses are more precise in their teachings, with separate modules focused on transportation planning, transit-oriented development, urban design, and residential infill. Prospective participants are advised to enrol in their subject or subjects of interest as soon as possible, as spots tend to fill up quickly. For more information, or to register, visit the official page on the City website.
