The City of Abbotsford has announced an update and new branding to the Official Community Plan starting this year.
The project will be known as Abbotsforward 2050 and is the first update to the OCP since 2016.
According to a press release from the City, the update will build on the successes of the existing OCP, while addressing the challenges and needs of today and tomorrow.
As part of the update, the City will seek community input as the process moves forward.
“Abbotsford is a rapidly growing city and with this growth comes a stronger economy and the opportunity to enhance our neighbourhoods, amenities and infrastructure,” stated Ross Siemens, Mayor of Abbotsford. “With input from the community, we’ll be able to update our strategic growth plan in alignment with the community’s vison. Together we can build and improve on what’s working, address some of the big challenges residents and businesses are facing, and keep Abbotsford moving forward as the cultural and economic Hub of the Fraser Valley.”
The release states that increasing the housing supply and broadening housing options will be a big part of the OCP update, making it important to explore changes in the context of the City’s infrastructure, parks, amenities, and other supports for Abbotsford’s growing population.
Updating the OCP was identified as one of council’s priority actions in their 2022 to 2026 strategic plan and is a multi-stage, 18-month process.
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Prior to Abbotsforward’s original launch in 2016, Abbotsford’s previous OCP was created in 2005. The 2016 OCP stated that a goal was a “major rethink” of the urban core and the creation of a city centre along South Fraser Way with fewer parking lots and more sidewalk cafes.
It also suggested considering asking for the removal of ALR land for industrial use and sports fields. Public consultations occurred in 2016, including a pop-up park event in April of that year.
The first draft plan from 2016 can be seen here.
City of Abbotsford - Why Leave? from Cassiar Film Co. on Vimeo.
For Abbotsforward 2050, residents will have a variety of ways to get involved and provide input over the course of the project, with engagement opportunities beginning in the spring.
More details on the project can be found at letstalkabbotsford.ca.
