Camrose City Council Approves Urban Design Framework

On August 10, 2026, Camrose City Council officially approved the City's Urban Design Framework (UDF), marking an important milestone in the ongoing effort to support a vibrant, attractive, and connected downtown. The Framework takes effect on September 1, 2026.

In July 2025, B&A Studios Inc. (B&A) was awarded the contract to develop the UDF. Over the following year, the project focused on creating a comprehensive document that provides clear design direction for downtown development and redevelopment. The UDF will assist builders, developers, business owners, property owners, Administration, and Council in evaluating urban design considerations for new development and changes to existing sites.

The Framework is organized around three key pillars: urban design, public realm, and mobility. Together, these pillars provide coordinated guidance to support downtown growth, enhance the public realm, improve connectivity, and encourage high-quality development that contributes to a strong and welcoming community.

A key component of the project was community and stakeholder engagement. Throughout the process, residents, businesses, property owners, and stakeholders shared their ideas and perspectives through a downtown walking tour, public workshop, two online surveys, and two Council workshops. This feedback helped inform and refine the Urban Design Framework, ensuring it reflects community values and priorities.

The project team would like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who participated in the engagement process. The time, feedback, and thoughtful contributions provided by community members and stakeholders played a vital role in shaping the final document. Public participation helped create a Framework that reflects local priorities while establishing a shared vision for the future of downtown Camrose.

The UDF is intended to advance the objectives of the Downtown Area Redevelopment Plan (DARP) by supporting a vibrant, attractive, pedestrian-friendly, and economically resilient downtown. By providing a clear vision for the design and function of both public and private spaces, the Framework will help guide future investment, strengthen economic activity, improve public spaces, and foster opportunities for community well-being and social interaction.

With Council's approval, Administration will use the UDF to inform future downtown development and redevelopment proposals, public realm improvements, and capital planning initiatives. The document will support early discussions with applicants and stakeholders, provide consistent design direction, and help ensure future projects align with the goals of the DARP.

Implementation of the Framework will occur over time through planning reviews, coordination with municipal projects, and the pursuit of opportunities to enhance downtown character, mobility, public spaces, and overall design quality. As the City moves forward, the Urban Design Framework will serve as an important tool in shaping a vibrant and sustainable downtown for years to come.