Big changes coming to #Innisfail! 🏙️ After devastating fires, the town is taking control of key downtown properties. What’s next for these lots? Find out! 🔥👀 #Alberta #Olds
Town of Innisfail Seizes Control Over Fire-Ravaged Downtown Properties
The recent acquisition of two fire-ravaged lots in the downtown historical block by the Town of Innisfail has sparked significant discussion within the community. This move represents a strategic effort to not only preserve the town's historical charm but also ensure thoughtful development moving forward. The council's decision to invest in these properties was driven by a combination of heritage preservation and a vision for the future. Let’s dive into the key points and themes surrounding this initiative, and explore its broader implications for the town.
A Commitment to Preservation and Control
The decision to purchase the vacant properties at 5003 and 5007 - 50th Street highlights the town's proactive approach in managing the future of its downtown core. After the devastating fires that claimed the historic Globe Coliseum and Berscht buildings, it became clear that without intervention, the downtown’s historic fabric could face further erosion. By taking ownership, the town now has the opportunity to steer the direction of future development rather than leaving it in the hands of private investors.
This move reflects the growing concern among residents and local businesses over the potential loss of Innisfail’s historic character. Mayor Jean Barclay expressed excitement about the acquisition, emphasizing the desire to rejuvenate the area and draw more people to the downtown core. For a community steeped in history, losing its heritage buildings one after the other would diminish the town's identity.
Short-Term Plans: A Public Plaza with Room for Growth
For now, the vision for these lots is focused on creating a public plaza or gathering space, offering a communal area for residents and visitors alike. This temporary solution provides a way to immediately make use of the properties while long-term redevelopment plans are considered. It’s not just about filling a void—it’s about creating a space that invites community engagement and breathes life back into the town’s downtown.
Outdoor public plazas can serve as vibrant spaces that promote cultural and social interaction, which is much needed following the loss of key historical landmarks. Such a space could host events, local markets, or serve as a quiet place for reflection in an area previously marked by tragedy. The idea of repurposing the land for the community resonates with a growing trend in urban design: giving public spaces back to the people.
As Coun. Jason Heistad pointed out, the properties could also be used year-round, suggesting possibilities for winter activities to ensure the space remains relevant across all seasons. This adaptability is key to keeping the community engaged while longer-term redevelopment plans are explored.
Future Development: Who Gets to Build?
Beyond the short-term plans for a plaza, Innisfail's acquisition ensures that future developments align with the town’s vision. This raises a critical question: What will ultimately be built on these lots? Meghan Jenkins, the town's community services director, emphasized the importance of having control over what gets developed. The town now holds the power to either construct something themselves or partner with the right developer to ensure the new buildings reflect Innisfail's values and heritage.
This approach could signal a move towards more sustainable and mindful development. It’s about more than just putting up new buildings—it’s about fostering spaces that enrich the community, whether that’s through cultural institutions, business opportunities, or mixed-use developments that can adapt to the town’s evolving needs.
The town council’s plan to explore redevelopment and partnership opportunities shows forward-thinking leadership. They are not rushing into any one solution but are taking the time to carefully consider what will benefit the town most in the long run. This kind of patience and vision is essential when it comes to preserving the historical and cultural heart of a town like Innisfail.
Preserving History While Embracing the Future
The broader theme here is the balance between preservation and progress. While the town has clearly committed to maintaining the historical significance of the downtown area, they are equally focused on ensuring that new development brings value to the community. This balance is difficult to strike, but when done right, it can lead to a downtown core that honors its past while embracing modern needs.
There is also an inherent symbolism in the town taking back control over its historical assets. The fires that devastated these properties are a reminder of how quickly history can be lost, but by stepping in, Innisfail is ensuring that the future of these lots is shaped by the community's hands rather than left to market forces.
What Does This Mean for Innisfail?
The acquisition of these downtown properties is more than just a land purchase—it’s a signal to the community that the town values its heritage and is willing to invest in its future. This move also opens up exciting possibilities for how the space will be used and developed. Whether it's creating an inviting public plaza or something more permanent, the town’s approach shows a clear commitment to thoughtful, community-centered development.
Residents of Innisfail should be optimistic about the potential these spaces hold. The careful planning and open dialogue about what will come next signals a bright future for the downtown core, one that respects the past while adapting to the needs of today’s residents.
As the town continues to explore its options for these properties, there will undoubtedly be opportunities for the public to weigh in on what they'd like to see. Whether it's more businesses, cultural spaces, or year-round gathering places, the community will play an important role in shaping the future of these lots.
Feel free to visit our Facebook or Twitter page and share your thoughts on what you think should come next for Innisfail's downtown core. Your opinion matters in ensuring that the town grows in a way that benefits everyone.