BILD Calgary Region Bulletin 2024 – 77

From:Deborah Cooper, Director of Strategic Initiatives & Government Relations
Date:December 23, 2024
Subject:Updates on Area Structure Plan Work and Upcoming Expression of Interest

Dear Members,

The City of Calgary has shared an important update regarding the progress and future plans for Area Structure Plan (ASP) work.

In July 2023, the City identified several key ASP initiatives, including work south of West Macleod, in Aurora and Nose Creek, as well as multiple industrial ASP amendments. Additionally, support for planning work related to the Prairie Economic Gateway was continued. These decisions were communicated to Council through a Briefing Note (IP2023-0253). All identified ASPs are currently underway.

Changing Nature of ASP Requests

Since the July 2023 update, the City has received numerous requests for additional ASP work—some submitted before the July decisions and others that have arisen since. Notably, many of these requests have shifted away from traditional, comprehensive standalone ASPs. Instead, they focus on expansions to existing ASPs or significant amendments to approved land use mixes.

At the same time, City Administration has faced unprecedented resource pressures. This is due to record application volumes, the need to develop or update multiple local and citywide planning policies, and competing Council priorities.

Future Plans for ASP Work

To manage these demands and respond to the evolving needs of the community, the City is exploring new approaches to deliver ASP-related work. A kickoff meeting is tentatively scheduled for the afternoon of January 16, 2025, to provide further details, but here’s a preview of what’s planned:

  • Standalone ASPs: The City anticipates initiating one to two City-led standalone ASPs no earlier than Q1 2026, contingent on the progress of ongoing ASPs.
  • Developer-Led Pilots: One to two developer-led pilots focused on ASP expansions or major amendments are expected to begin in Q2 2025.

Expression of Interest (EOI) Process

To ensure transparency and fairness, the City plans to launch an Expression of Interest (EOI) process in January 2025. Decisions will be made a few months after the EOI is issued, and all projects will follow a developer-funded model. Members interested in participating are encouraged to review the criteria used in 2023 for project selection, as they are unlikely to change significantly.

The City aims to streamline submission requirements to make them as brief and focused as possible.

Next Steps

The City will provide more details during the January 16meeting, including insights into the evaluation process. Please forward this information to others who may be interested. If you have questions ahead of the meeting please contact:

Stay tuned for further updates, and thank you for your continued engagement in shaping Calgary’s ASP development.