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Calgary’s Beltline has been growing in leaps and bounds since the community took the rather unusual step to develop its own vision document, Blueprint for the Beltline, in 2003. The vision: to create a vibrant community of 40,000 people by 2035.

Yes, the community produced its own vision, at its own cost and then presented it to the city. And, while the Blueprint for the Beltline had no official status with the city, it served as the catalyst to get the city to approve a new Beltline Area Redevelopment Plan in 2006. Ultimately, it resulted in the amalgamation of Connaught and Victoria Park, two of Calgary’s oldest communities with a population base of 17,500.

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While the blueprint identified the need for more amenities like green spaces, public realm improvements and character districts, it also embraced the idea that the community needed more density. Yes, you read right. They wanted more high-rises and mid-rises as a means of creating a vibrant community with lots of urban amenities — grocery stores, shops, pubs, clubs, lounges, galleries, festivals, bike lanes and great streets.