The public will have another opportunity to shape the future conservation and use of the cherished North Saskatchewan river valley at two upcoming open houses. The second phase of public engagement for the Ribbon of Green project will provide an update about the status of the vast initiative and how feedback collected during the first phase has informed the vision and priorities of the southwest and northeast study areas.

Ribbon of Green study areas, image via City of Edmonton

The Ribbon of Green aims to consolidate the original Ribbon of Green plans developed in 1990 and 1992 into one cohesive document. The 1990 concept plan provided a foundation for the planning, management, and prioritization of park development within the river valley and ravine system. The 1992 master plan segregated the system based on priorities for planning and infrastructure, adopting a decision-making framework based on technical analysis, policy and financial data. With the consolidated new Ribbon of Green, the southwest and northeast corners of the valley and ravine system would be subject to a strategic guidance plan. 

One of the primary goals of the project, according to the City of Edmonton website, is to "develop a vision and innovative, implementable, integrated conceptual-level plans for each study area that facilitate public access while sustaining healthy and resilient ecosystems."

The first open house in the second round of engagement will be held on Monday, November 6 from 4 to 8 PM at Abbottsfield Recreation Centre (3006 119 Avenue NW). The second open house is scheduled for the 7th from 4 to 8 PM at Westridge Wolf Willow Country Club Community League (505 Wolf Willow Road NW).

Representatives from the Oleskiw River Valley Park Master Plan will also be on hand to welcome feedback on two concept options for the park, which lies within the southwest Ribbon of Green study area. The public's responses will help prioritize elements and create a final concept plan reflective of the citizenry's vision for the space.

An online questionnaire will accept submissions from November 6 to 26. Additional information about Ribbon of Green can be found here, and the plan can be discussed in our designated Forum thread.