Kimberley City Council has paved the way for the future of the community with the approval of the Downtown Urban Design Strategy.
Part of the plan emphasizes a focus on the area as an appealing spot to residents and visitors.
“Kimberley’s downtown area is fairly compact, and given our reliance on tourism, we need to make sure it’s a very tourism-friendly area,” said Mayor Don McCormick.
However, McCormick said some infrastructure work is a major priority ahead of beautification.
“The downtown area in particular is going to need some renewal very soon,” said McCormick.
“We needed a plan for how we’re going to maintain that downtown so we can prioritize those infrastructure upgrades we need.”
The plan has been in the works for at least two years, with plenty of public input.
“We had a tremendous amount of feedback and the plan that was handed to us is the result of that collaboration,” said McCormick.
The plan will focus on vehicle and foot traffic alongside creating a pleasant atmosphere.
“You won’t see any radical changes downtown. The plan is centred on how vehicles and pedestrians move downtown,” said McCormick.
“Once you’re in that space, the plan focuses on what it will feel like, so the establishment of some greenspaces and benches.”
McCormick said the Downtown Urban Design Strategy will guide future decision-making regarding the community’s downtown core.
“What we’re talking about is gradual changes over time. We still have feedback that we will get from residents and businesses downtown,” said McCormick.
“That will involve into what we hope will be an awesome downtown.”
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