| This practicum presents a comparative study which includes a review of long range plans for six prairie cities located in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. This practicum explores to what extent Smart Growth principles are included in the pre-planning of greenfield, greyfield, and brownfield growth areas with a particular interest in how greenfield development is approached. The practicum explores the prospects, challenges, and potential for Smart Growth to be included in future plan reviews, and the upcoming review of Plan Winnipeg 2020 Vision. A plan review also revealed policies based on Smart Growth strategies. This research is intended to inform policy makers, urban planners, and other groups involved in the planning process with a better understanding of the challenges for the inclusion of Smart Growth principles and strategies in long range municipal plans and implementing them in times of high development pressure. While Winnipeg is considered a slow growth city, the other cities examined in this study provide important lessons for approaching sustainable growth models, designed to absorb the majority of population growth in new suburban greenfield areas, with support from established neighbourhoods. Based on the findings of a review of the long range comprehensive plans and key informant interviews with city and municipal planners, private sector planning consultants, and others involved in long range planning, this practicum reveals several attitudinal, institutional, and financial barriers that currently hinder Smart Growth implementation. To overcome these barriers, eight measures regarding policy changes, institutional changes, program development, and promotion of a Smart Growth agenda are recommended. The conclusions indicate there are significant issues to overcome in order to better promote and implement Smart Growth, however interview respondents reveal there are existing opportunities to change policy, create programs, and encourage developers, local governments, and the public to be open towards Smart Growth. |
