Bronconnier outlined a number of issues which together spell trouble for future infrastructure in Calgary: the fact that 50 per cent of growth in Alberta is happening in Calgary; that provincial infrastructure grants will “bottom out” in 2008; that provincial conservative candidates are not addressing municipal issues; and that $5.4 billion worth of infrastructure and $2.7 billion worth of maintenance on existing infrastructure, for which there is no funding, is needed within the next ten years.

“We need to address these issues early, to prevent later problems,” said Bronconnier.

The mayor is touting the construction of “smart-growth communities,” which will see residents through the full life cycle of the community – from young families with children who need schools and parks, to older couples who need in-home or out-of-home care.

“What we’re talking about is building integrated communities, where services are in place from the beginning,” said Bronconnier.

Anyone living in a new community knows the frustration of waiting for schools, recreation amenities and basic infrastructure to be completed after you have moved into your new home. While this is a basic fact of living in a community that is still under construction, Bronconnier hopes to speed up the process so that services and infrastructure are in place from the beginning. His proposal to build integrated communities applies specifically to the proliferation of new communities that are popping up to accommodate Calgary’s exploding population.

Bronconnier’s proposal has generally been well received, though Calgarians continue to be concerned about the rate of population growth, spending methods, and whether the money would actually reach its intended targets under this proposal. The CBE and conservative leadership candidates have not been quick to jump on board with the mayor’s plan.   NL