The rapid growth of the Beltline is impelling planning officials to amend the Area Redevelopment Plan currently in force. Adopted by council in 2006, the Beltline Area Redevelopment Plan outlined a vision that is now coming to fruition, and the on-the-ground evolution of the urban realm is forcing another look at the guiding document.

The Rivers District, the east end of the Beltline, is subject to a new visioning exercise, image retrieved from Google Maps

The City has started the process of amending the plan and creating policies to shape future development of the 286-acre Rivers District area in the eastern end of the Beltline. The study area includes the Calgary Stampede Grounds, which remain in redevelopment limbo as Olympic aspirations advance and hockey arena plans stall.

Rivers District is eyed as the new cultural and entertainment hub for Calgary. Amendments to the Beltline ARP will be designed to support the vision devised by CMLC's River District Master Plan, which has been in motion since 2015. CMLC imagines the district as a mixed-use, high-density community that could realistically accommodate 8,000 new residents and approximately four million square feet of development in the next 20 years.

Rivers District study area, image via City of Calgary

An open house has been scheduled for April 11 from 4 to 7 PM at the St. Louis Hotel, where residents can review project details, provide feedback and talk to City staff. Anyone unable to attend can share their thoughts online beginning on April 11 and lasting until July 16.