$11.5M jump in cost of bridge approved by committee

The city’s transportation committee has approved the original design for the 102nd Avenue bridge over Groat Road even though it will cost $11.5 million more than planned.

The cost of the bridge was $20.7 million when estimates were first done in 2011. Councillors learned last month that the price has increased to $32.2 million.

Read more: http://tinyurl.com/cs5g7te

Economic committee to be replaced

A city committee that, for more than a dozen years provided city council with advice on economic development, will be disbanded.

Described as too large and unwieldy, with an uncertain role given the city’s renewed focus on economic development, the St. Albert Economic Development Advisory Board – affectionately known in city parlance as SAEDAC (say-dak) – will be replaced.

Read more: http://tinyurl.com/bnlpmfz

Naheed Nenshi may allow home builder’s group back onto city committees despite president’s refusal to apologize over dispute

CALGARY — Mayor Naheed Nenshi has signalled he may undo a home builder’s group suspension from city committees, even if its president refuses to apologize for comments that rankled the mayor’s office.

At council’s formal request, Nenshi will meet Tuesday morning with Charron Ungar, local president of the Canadian Home Builders Association.

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Executive committee to debate proposed limits on front garages in mature neighbourhoods

The city’s administration is proposing restrictions on where developers can build suburban-style front garages in mature neighbourhoods, but those who hate the boxy look argue changes don’t go far enough.

Newly suggested amendments to the zoning bylaw for mature neighbourhoods make it clear front access is not allowed where there is a back alley and fewer than half of the other homes on the block have front access.

Read more: http://tinyurl.com/b3rdlwx

100 Avenue plans going to committee

After some debate, the final plans for 100 Avenue on the east side of town will be presented to the public works committee for approval Tuesday.

The segment from 90 Street to 84 Street will ultimately become a four-lane divided road when the city hits 90,000 population and there will be signalized intersections at 96 Street, 93 Street, 90 Street and 84 Street.

The city has conducted open houses on the study of the road and some issues have been met, including access into the Ivy Lake Villas, which are located on the east side of 92 Street, just north of the intersection with 100 Avenue.

Read more: http://tinyurl.com/a2vwz77