Making Urban Agriculture a Success

April 21, 2012   from The Sustainable Cities Collective

Urban Agriculture is a movement towards growing and raising more food within densely populated areas of major cities. Today, about 15% of the world’s food is now grown in urban areas. Since space is limited in big cities, you may have noticed city gardens sprouting up in smaller spaces such as balconies or on "green roofs".  The link below will take you to a post regarding the growth of urban food production and its relevance to the CGA's upcoming May 27th workshop "Beets, Bees and Beauty; Advancing Urban Agriculture".

Read more about this topic here.

Catching the wave: Demographics, Costs and Climate shift living choices; outer suburbs may “lack staying power” - Urban Land Institute

Recently the Urban Land Institute and PriceWaterhouseCoopers released their well-regarded annual analysis, Emerging Trends in Real Estate 2010.  This report, annually published for the last 30 years, aims to advise the industry "on where to invest, what to develop, which markets are hot, and how the economy, and trends in capital flows will affect real estate."  The report also serves as a caution to those home owners fixated on the value of their large suburban homes as being a guaranteed retirement nest egg that must always accrue in value.

The authors, who surveyed over 900 industry experts - investors, developers, property companies, lenders, brokers, and consultants - believe that the public appetite and need for re-adapted development for mixed-use "smart growth" neighbourhoods are much stronger than they are for automobile-serviced suburban sprawl.  Many of the report's assessments fully co-incide with the goals for the DNV's own recently adopted 2030 Official Community Plan and its proposals for Village and Town Centres.

Here's an excerpt: 
"Next-generation projects will ori­ent to infill, urbanizing suburbs, and transit-oriented develop­ment. Smaller housing units-close to mass transit, work, and 24-hour amenities-gain favor over large houses on big lots at the suburban edge. People will continue to seek greater convenience and want to reduce energy expenses. Shorter commutes and smaller heating bills make up for higher infill real estate costs."

Looking at the growing factors affecting lifestyle and housing choices, the report advises investors to "buy or hold multifamily" as "the only place with a hint of hope, because of demographic demand" as a large contingent of echo boomers seek their first homes.

In a section titled "Markets to Watch," the report also advises investors to favor convenient urban office, retail, entertainment and recreation districts where there are mass transit alternatives to driving.  Investors are advised to shy away from, among other things, fringe areas "with long car com­mutes or where getting a quart of milk means taking a 15- minute drive."

"Road conges­tion, higher energy costs, and climate change concerns combine to alter peo­ple's thinking about where they decide to live and work. 'It's a fundamental shift.' The lifestyle cost-of-living equa­tion starts to swing away more dramati­cally from bigger houses on bigger lots at the suburban edge to greater convenience and efficiencies gained from infill housing closer to work. These homes may be more expensive on a price-per-pound basis, but reduced driving costs and lower heating/cooling bills provide offsets . . . 'near-in suburbs will do well especially if they link to busi­ness cores by mass transportation.' Empty nesters and later-marrying echo boomers continue to flock to cities and urbanizing suburban areas. For aging baby boomers, infill apartment or town­house living means less upkeep and proximity to cultural and entertainment attractions." 

All of the above concerns inform the proposed Lower Capilano/Marine Village Centre and the planning implementation being conducted this spring by DNV Planning.

The community consultation and DNV technical analysis work together will inform more detailed design of the Village Centre. It is anticipated the Lower Capilano/Marine Village Centre Implementation Plan will be substantially advanced by mid 2012 and completed by year-end with community consultation occurring throughout the process.  

More details can be found at www.identity.dnv.org  or by contacting the Lead Project Planner, Tom Lancaster LancasterT@dnv.org

Hey! While you're up, get me another planet / Ray Cole and Jack Diamond on rethinking our cities

Two architects, one speaking to our capacity crowd at the final "Big Bench Session", the second writing in the Globe and Mail, outlined the ways in which the form of our cities run counter to sustainability in terms of natural, social and financial systems.
In his presentation "We Make Buildings/Buildings Make Us: Looking Beyond Green", UBC's Dr. Ray Cole outlined the ways that our current building forms and zoning bylaws waste precious energy, lessen productivity and promote social alienation.

Ranging from the macro aspects of climate change affecting Inuit hunting traditions, to the need for  local systems that re-establish natural resiliency, Dr. Cole illustrated the unbalanced consumption of world resources fostered by the western lifestyle. 

Writing in the Dec. 2nd Globe & Mail, Jack Diamond's "The gravy in land use and density" reveals the underlying problem of low density housing that we in the District of North Vancouver have come to recognize: "...municipalities in which the predominant land use is that of single families or other low-density forms of accommodation find that real-estate taxes simply con't meet the cost of providing hard (street lighting, garbage pickup etc.) and soft (libraries, parks etc.) services,  To continue building cities in this way can only plunge municipalities even deeper into debt."

In tackling the financial deficiencies underpinning our suburban form, Diamond arrives at a similar solution to Dr. Cole: the need for breaking the rigid stranglehold of zoning bylaws.  Integrating work, commercial and residential activities will lead to a lower carbon footprint, an improved and more efficient infrastructure, more healthy people walking and opportunities for people to shed their automobiles. 

Coming from two different perspectives, Diamond and Cole illuminate the need for change and show why, in fact, there is no alternative if we are to retain any long term viability and vibrancy for our urban and suburban spaces: "Besides increasing debt, there'll be more sprawl and needless consumption of agricultural, recreational and conservation land, yet longer commuting times, lower productivity, less efficient emergency services, more pollution and a diminished quality of life."

 - excerpt from Strong Towns Blog

"Since the end of World War II, we've been so wealthy and had so much growth that, for most parts of the country, the productivity of our places did not matter much. If it created a job, it was good. If it brought in a new business, it was good. We didn't ever pause to worry about what happens when the maintenance bill comes due.

Those bills are due now, and more are arriving each day. We don't have anywhere near the money to maintain so many unproductive places. What we face is a choice between a chaotic reset or a strategic contraction -- one where we intentionally divert our limited resources into those endeavors that are most productive while we seek -- block by block and neighborhood by neighborhood -- to improve the productivity of our places."

The inconvenient truth lying at the bottom of our aging population

An article by Jeffrey Simpson in the Nov. 5th Globe and Mail (Link here) outlines the problem intrinsic to Canada's aging population: costs will increase, while revenue growth will decline.

Aging will drive up costs for health care (already the greatest financial obligation of government budgets) and income support for the elderly.  At the same time national income will slow as a vast number of baby boomers slip into retirement.

The problem is carefully explained in a study by Christopher Ragan, a public policy economist at McGill University.  If taxes remain the same while spending rises there will be "an ever-widening yearly gap" between revenues and expenditures from today until at least 2040.

The choices become either raising taxes or reducing spending or borrow the money.  Borrowing will burden future generations and is the least responsible, although the easiest political option.

Given the inconvenient truth lying at the base of the problem there are only two remedies at hand; raising taxes or significantly changing the scope and structure of public programs and policy.  There is in actuality no other option.

This knowledge is essential for DNV Council (and other levels of government) to retain as a central point of reference as we enter this critical confluence of a rising aging population and declining revenues.

This knowledge is also an essential point of departure for DNV residents to retain in setting priorities for their communities' viability and their expectations of DNV politicians' abilities to deliver amenities and services at an affordable price.

Video highlights of "Building a Healthy Community: The Essential Ingredients"

View highlights from Brian O'Connor's "Building a Healthy Community" presentation at our opening evening event.

Please make plans to attend our next evening "Creating the Community Living Room", October 26, 7:30PM with Paula Carr.  Internationally recognized for her community building,  Paula will reveal the ideas and steps that create a "community living room" that strengthen neighbourhood health, well-being and social capital.

All events take place 7:30PM

Capilano Rugby Clubhouse

Klahanie Park, West Vancouver

Snacks and refreshments provided, as well as a cash bar for your enjoyment

Here are some comments from the audience at our Sept 21 event.

• "Thanks for a wonderful and inspiring evening...very professional and yet at the same time informal and comfortable."
• "We've had great feedback on your event.  Well done!"
• "Great job last night.  Looking forward to the next one"
• "Oh, that was so, so good!"

See the previous post (below) for more details of the CGA's "Building a Better Community" series.

The Big Bench Sessions / Workable ideas for the Gateway

"Building a Better Community"

With the adoption of the 2030 Official Community Plan and the Village Centre concept, we have the opportunity to revitalize our neighbourhood, making it more human-scale, sustainable and an interconnected community.

The Capilano Gateway Association has brought together a group of dedicated professionals of international recognition, with backgrounds in social health, community development and building design, to share their experiences on how to shape an inclusive community for a better future in a changing world.

Join us for these three evening events of ideas and insights that will prepare our neighbourhood for the challenges and opportunities awaiting.

   Event Dates:     September 21    -    October 26     -    November 30

Capilano Rugby Clubhouse
Klahanie Park
West Vancouver

All Events begin at 7:30 PM

Funding for this series of community events has come from the Lower Capilano Community Service Enhancement Initiative Grants, through the North Vancouver Recreation Commission, the Corporation of the District of North Vancouver, with the generous facility support of the Capilano Rugby Club.

How Do We Build a Better Community?  3 Special Evening Events

"Building a Healthy Community: The Essential Ingredients"

  Dr. Brian O'Connor, Medical Health Officer, Vancouver Coastal Health

September 21,  7:30 PM   Capilano Rugby Club

 As Medical Health Officer for Vancouver Coastal Health, Dr. O?Connor has stated that municipal authorities have the potential - through thoughtful design and public policy - to do more for the broad general health of the population than can the medical profession.  The design and form of our community affects how we live, recreate, and socialize.

In this opening event for our series, Dr. O?Connor reveals the ways an interdisciplinary approach to community planning and public policy improves our physical and mental health in essential and profound ways.

-  With Renee Strong, Executive Director, Capilano Community Services Society.  Renee will offer insights into the coming critical and increasing demand for services requested of Capservices.

Following the speakers presentations a Q&A session will provide an opportunity for further discussion.  Snacks and refreshments will be provided as well as a cash bar.

"Creating the Community Living Room"

  Paula Carr, former Executive Director, Collingwood Neighbourhood House

  October 26,  7:30 PM   Capilano Rugby Club

Recognized across the world, Collingwood Neighbourhood House began, says Paula Carr, "with a group of five people sitting around a kitchen table, wanting to create a caring community."  Twenty-three years later, that dream has become an ever-evolving reality, a multi-service community centre that is intercultural and intergenerational.

Collingwood Neighbourhood House's success comes from its shared values of respect, diversity and capacity-building through it's strong focus on family, community collaboration and leadership.

Impressed by the operation of Collingwood Neighbourhood House, UBC Professor Leonie Sandercock produced a documentary on the centre titled "Where Strangers Become Neighbours".  In addition to her commentary, Paula will screen a 20 minute version of this NFB-produced documentary.

  "We Make Buildings / Buildings Make Us: Looking beyond Green"

  Dr. Ray Cole, Professor, UBC School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture

  November 30,  7:30 PM  Capilano Rugby Club

Dr. Ray Cole has taught environmental issues in building design for the past thirty years and was co-founder of the Green Building Challenge - an international collaborative effort to benchmark progress in green building performance and environmental assessment.  Designated as a UBC Distinguished University Scholar, Dr. Cole has served on numerous national and international committees related to buildings and the environment.

His current work in "Regenerative Design" goes beyond the purely technical aspects of green building to bridge the physical and functional, emotional and spiritual attributes of nature.  This emerging approach to architectural design offers new insight for constructed projects that can increase, rather than diminish, social and natural capital.

For further information:  604-985-5621 / 604-904-7581       Email: capgatewayassoc@gmail.com

Complexities & Insights / Planning a Community Centre for Lower Capilano

 What essential components of design and programming are needed for a Lower Capilano community centre that engenders community identity, better community health and well being?  

 How do the facility design considerations serve a broad user base in the most inclusive manner? 

 
Why services –beyond sport and fitness - need to be provided in a multi-functional environment to successfully serve a wide range of community ages, abilities and needs.

Fitness gym at Mt. Pleasant Community Centre, Vancouver

These and other planning concerns formed the basis of the recent August 4^th Community Centres Bus Tour, organized by DNV Planning Dept. with Annie Mauboules and Tom Lancaster.  Framed with an eye to creating community awareness of the complex considerations that go into creating a modern community centre, the tour covered four facilities, ranging from the suburban environment of Parkgate on the  North Shore, to the changing urban demographic of Mt. Pleasant.

The experience and insights gained on the tour deepened the knowledge base for tour participants on a number of fronts, for example: 

•      Essential consideration for the role of storage immediately adjacent to multi-purpose rooms was noted by each facility manager.  Without sufficient storage, users are unable to efficiently re-purpose spaces in ways that guarantee successful programming.
•      Social and community services function most efficiently and to greater benefit when they are combined in a manner that provides ‘one-stop shopping’ for users, integrating community health care centers and other population health initiatives.
•       Governance models for community centres need to evolve to ensure appropriate community involvement that is accountable and flexible.
•       The critical need for a variety of room size options and use of glass to promote cohesive and open interior spaces that invite participation and convey a sense of security and activity.            

Senior's exercise classes / Activity room at John Braithwaite Centre

Visiting the four sites gave participants practical knowledge of the range of facility size and planning requirements needed to successfully create an informed vision for  Lower Capilano community centre within a cohesive Village Centre plan.  

Tour participants at John Braithwaite Centre meeting with centre manager.

 These planning perspectives will also inform the October 26  “Building a Community Living Room” event, part of the Big Bench Sessions series of community planning events organized by the CGA.

 Further details for this upcoming series of community events will be circulated in early September.

CGA Projects and Initiatives - A Progress Report

The Curling to Belle Isle pedestrian/cycle path; soon to be the site for the Gateway Mural project

The Capilano Gateway Association continues its efforts and community engagement with a range of projects and information dedicated to building the community and enhancing the overall livability and responsible sustainability of Lower Capilano neighbourhood.

The installed park bench for Belle Isle Park has become a favourite resting spot for many residents, as well as the focal point for informal community discussions.  The May 5, 2011 addition of the handicap-accessible picnic table, and park garbage receptacle, has encouraged many people,  families and children to come the safe play environment of the park. 

In the immediate future, the Curling Road to Belle Isle pathway will see the installation of a drop curb pan to allow further and safe use of the path by cyclists, pedestrians and those with mobility scooters and wheelchairs.  This work is slated for completion in July, along with other grading improvements to the path.

Working with the DNV Parks department, the CGA has arranged for similar handicap drop ramps to be installed on Belle Isle Park to ensure full disabled access to the park for everyone.  This priority item is contingent on 2012 budget allocations to be voted on by DNV Council.

Recently the CGA was awarded funds under the Neighbourhood Enhancement Program to implement a mural project along the Belle Isle pathway.  The project will proceed in conjunction with local youth service organizations and business partners to create a neighbourhood focal point.

Beginning in September, "The Big Bench Sessions" will see a variety of resource professionals present their insights and experience to a series of themed community discussions dedicated to create awareness and a collective vision for "Building a Healthy Community". 

This series of three meetings, will explore the essential elements required to form a more livable, sustainable community that embraces people of all ages.  Out of these sessions the community can create a positive vision of the opportunities available through the implementation of the Lower Capilano - Marine Local Plan of the OCP.  Further information and flyers on this will be circulated later this summer.

As always, the CGA blog site continues to be a source of information and community connection, with an expanding local and international readership.
www.capilanogatewayassociation.blogspot.com

We look forward to additional initiatives in the coming year and welcome your feedback and participation.

sincerely

Kim, Jai, Wayne, Elaine, Doug  
The CGA Executive Board