Airdrie Minute: Art Policy, Traffic Signals, and Genesis Place Fees

Airdrie Minute - Your weekly one-minute summary of Airdrie politics

This Week In Airdrie:

• The Community Infrastructure and Strategic Growth Standing Committee will meet on Tuesday at 1:00 pm. The only item on the agenda is a development permit for a Residential Sales Centre at 1215 Fowler Road SW.
  
  
• Three candidates are already gearing up for the municipal election. Simisola Obasan, Jay Raymundo, and Tomisin Adenipekun have filed their Notice of Intent, with Obasan also officially submitting nomination papers. Candidates must meet eligibility requirements outlined by the City, which includes financial and legal criteria. If you are thinking about running, more information is available here.
  
  
• An online petition calling for the renaming of Yankee Valley Blvd has residents debating! Critics argue that the costs of replacing signage, updating addresses, and changing promotional materials would place a financial burden on taxpayers and businesses. Others emphasize the historical significance of the name, which dates back to early 1900s settlers, and view the petition as an unnecessary attempt to alter local history. However, a smaller group supports the idea, suggesting Canadian-themed alternatives like "Canuck Crossing." The petition is part of a broader debate on local identity and its connection to current trade tensions with the US. While the discussion continues, any name change would require approval by Council.

Last Week In Airdrie:

• Council has approved a new public art policy, replacing the 2008 version with updated guidelines for funding, decision-making, and artwork selection. The policy introduces a structured approach for permanent, temporary, and rotational art installations, including a clearer process for accepting donations. Airdrie’s Inspire facility, set to open this fall, will showcase 100 rotating artworks annually and feature community-selected pieces. A newly formed Community and Corporate Services Committee will oversee smaller projects to streamline approvals. Public input will play a role in future art selections, with residents able to participate through the City’s website.
  
  
• Airdrie has reinstated plans to install traffic signals at the intersection of Yankee Valley Boulevard and King’s Heights Gate following new data and safety concerns. Initially, the project was removed from the budget after traffic volumes decreased post-40th Avenue interchange opening, but further monitoring revealed an increase in traffic and raised pedestrian safety concerns. The project, now part of the 2025 capital budget, is estimated to cost $520,000, with signals expected to be installed within 16 months. Meanwhile, temporary safety measures, such as lane adjustments and improved pedestrian crossings, are in place. The City aims to complete the project by the end of the 2025 construction season.
  
  
• Council has decided against introducing a pool-only admission fee at Genesis Place, maintaining its single admission model. The City’s Recreation Manager explained that a unified pass structure encourages broader participation, supports cost recovery, and keeps overall operating expenses lower. While some Councillors questioned whether a swim-only pass could be an option, the City noted that similar models in other municipalities were discontinued due to administrative challenges and revenue losses. Councillor Heather Spearman pushed for reconsideration, citing public demand. Data showed that most pass holders use multiple amenities, reinforcing the value of an all-inclusive fee.