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“They’re not all going to be the same. Some are going to be higher density, some are going to be a little bit lower density. Some are going to require more of a mix of (property) uses, some are going to allow single uses,” Schulz said in an interview.

“(But) even though we’re going to see change along the corridors, we also want to be able to provide some certainty for the community about where the change is planned to happen and where they should expect things to be stable and the same,” he added.

The general aim is for high-density construction along major arteries, shifting to less dense buildup in adjacent neighbourhoods.

All long-range plans involve economic uncertainty, but Schulz said proactive zoning and financial incentives for developers should help encourage growth. Large developments already underway on Broadway Ave. and College Drive are positive signs, he said.

“Our role is really just to enable (growth),” he said.

Rezoning for large infill projects has proven contentious, with at least one prominent developer swearing off the process entirely after a two-year battle with local residents convinced him the risk-to-reward proposition simply wasn’t worth it.

It has, however, been suggested conflict over large projects is exaggerated, with opposition coming from a minority of residents.

North Prairie Development CEO Andrew Williams, whose company is working on a 12-storey condominium tower at Clarence Ave. and College Drive, said he supports a “healthy balance” of infill and suburban construction, and applauded the city’s efforts.