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Where we are now:
As part of the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan (ARP) for the Town of Coaldale, we have been engaging with residents, businesses, students, and community partners to better understand how downtown is used today—and how we can best prepare for the future of the area. Through a series of events held between February and April, we heard from a wide range of voices about their experiences, priorities, and ideas for the future of the downtown.
What we’ve heard so far:
There is a strong desire to make downtown Coaldale safer and more connected, particularly by improving key infrastructure like the 20th Avenue and Highway 845 intersection, enhancing pedestrian accessibility, and better managing traffic and parking. At the same time, many participants expressed that downtown currently feels “transactional” and lacks the energy, variety, and identity of a true destination.
There is a desire for more activity and vibrancy, through events like farmers’ markets, live music, and seasonal festivals, as well as more inviting public spaces with trees, seating, lighting, and year-round usability. There is also a clear interest in expanding the range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options to better serve residents and visitors of all ages and abilities.
A recurring theme across all conversations is the need to create a stronger sense of place—one that reflects Coaldale’s unique character, history, and values, while being inclusive and welcoming to everyone. In particular, the John Davidson School site has emerged as a significant opportunity to support this vision, with strong interest in mixed-use development, community amenities, green space, and multi-generational programming.
What are the desired outcomes of this survey:
This survey is the next step in the process. It is designed to build on what we’ve heard so far and help us refine priorities, test ideas, and ensure the Downtown ARP reflects the community’s vision for the future of the area.
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