Intent support for regional transportation pilot project

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

After head-to-head discussion over Strathmore council’s support for the Calgary Regional Transportation south pilot project in Okotoks, Turner Valley, Black Diamond, High River and Nanton, council agreed to have Mayor Ell convey their support for the project at a Calgary Regional Partnership vote in Cochrane on Sept. 17.
The Calgary Regional Transportation partnership is made up of 14 municipal communities, with the goal to increase transportation opportunities.
Representatives from the partnership appeared in council the previous meeting, to answer questions about the project. Councilor Steve Grajczyk wanted to ensure that this consent presented no direct or indirect financial obligations for the town. Sobol countered it had no ramifications.
“The long-range plan is to include Strathmore in the regional transportation plan. I have worked for years in order to make this happen. We are next in line for a pilot project, or at least I hope we still are,” said Councilor Bob Sobol. “No funds have been committed and before this can happen, it would have to come for review before council.”
“This gives direction on what we would like to move forward within the plan and we still get to observe how things work in Okotoks. They weren’t expecting any money or anything, they basically have a two-year pilot project, so if we do give the approval to you (Mayor Ell), it is just for the overall philosophy or direction,” said Councilor Pat Fule. “I think we are in a perfect situation because we are only giving direction and guidance and indicating that we are interested and involved, but we get to sit back and watch how the south situation evolves, so we are in a great situation here.”
Councilor Denise Peterson said she was impressed with the presentation and that it would give a made-in-Strathmore solution that would build on our community strengths.
Mayor Ell said that it will connect our communities and keep emissions down. The money has been given to the CRP and is financed by the Green fund and the municipalities involved. Prior to commitment by Strathmore, a needs assessment will be done. Councilor Sobol qualified that populations under 30,000 would not have a plan similar to the south pilot project, but something that would be tailored to Strathmore’s present and future needs.
“I go into a meeting tomorrow in Cochrane and I want to tell them that Strathmore is open for business,” said Sobol.
Council approved the directive for Mayor Ell and the Calgary Regional Transportation support.