As many of you are aware, Edmonton is in the process of creating a vision for Downtown East. If you are thinking to yourself, Downtown East, where is that? You are not alone. On a typical day the average Edmontonian is only aware that they have to travel through Downtown East to get to the downtown core. Generally speaking Edmonton rarely discusses or hears about this part of the city, with the exception being a news story on prostitution, theft, or sometimes far worse. But this can be changed. The Mayor, Councilors, City Administration and the public see the potential.
 

Rich in history, culture, diversity, and social problems, East Jasper is one of the more unique areas in this city. We need to recognize this, for good and for bad. We cannot simply raze and rebuild, even though some might see this as the only option. We need to look to ways of creating a public space that reaches out to all residents and business owners; we need a single cohesive plan. Of course, creating a single vision for such a diverse and eclectic neighborhood is not a simple task. Don Stastny presented 5 distinct and creative options from which a single vision will be formed. Major concerns were recognizing the “givens” such as historical buildings, Louise Mckinney Park, and current connections to the downtown. The 5 options were a blend of density patterns, road alignments, pedestrian corridors, and open space. He used the analogy of preparing for landing to help give people an idea of where they are at with this process, indicating as with landing a modern jet, this plan is far from simple and involves many procedures and checklists.
 

So then…where do we go from here? Should we look to the past for guidance or rely on the “givens” to direct where we head? Or should we look to the future and ask ourselves what should Downtown East represent for future generations?. The majority of Edmontonians maintain the perception that it is crime ridden, unsafe, and encompasses many social ills. However, we must be cognizant that 97^th Street has for far too long been the proverbial railway track dividing Edmonton’s vibrant core and decrepit “downtown eastside”.  Currently, for right or wrong, Downtown East has an exclusive feel to it, but for the wrong reasons.
 

We are fortunate to have a rare opportunity to create a vibrant neighborhood that will attract a wide variety of residents, businesses, and curious visitors alike. To have the ability to reshape such a significant neighborhood bordering the downtown, connected to the river valley, and blessed with reminders of our past, we should step carefully but not be too afraid to take long strides.
 

Edmonton, it’s time to reach beyond the edge of familiarity and mediocrity. Color outside the lines for once…you never know, you might like it.