Plan Overview
Learn more about the plan framework created through the Ribbon of Green SW+NE, including Vision and Principles, System-wide Policies, Site Direction and Implementation.
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The Ribbon of Green SW+NE was the first step in renewing our strategic planning for the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravine System. The project created the Ribbon of Green SW+NE Plan (13.25 MB), which provides a vision, guiding principles and strategic guidance for the southwest and northeast reaches of the North Saskatchewan River Valley and Ravine System.
The next phase of work, the Ribbon of Green Completion, is now underway as part of the River Valley Planning Modernization project. Once complete, a comprehensive Ribbon of Green Plan will provide strategic guidance for the whole River Valley and Ravine System.
Learn more about the plan framework created through the Ribbon of Green SW+NE, including Vision and Principles, System-wide Policies, Site Direction and Implementation.
Four phases of public engagement helped to inform the creation of the Ribbon of Green SW+NE.
For details, see Ribbon of Green SW+NE Public Engagement and Communications Plan and Engagement Timeline.
Ribbon of Green SW+NE Plan (13.25 MB) - June 2020
Environmental Scan
Reviews best practices from around the globe that will inform the Ribbon of Green project.
Project Alignment Background
Outlines how the Ribbon of Green project will align with key projects, as well as the relevant acts, policies and plans.
In 1990, the Ribbon of Green Concept Plan provided a foundation for the planning, management, and prioritization of park development within the North Saskatchewan river valley and ravine system.
In 1992, the Ribbon of Green Master Plan divided the system based on priorities for planning and infrastructure. It presented a decision-making framework based on technical analysis, policy and financial data.
The Ribbon of Green SW+NE project updated the system-wide policy of the original Ribbon of Green plans and developed strategic guidance for the southwest and northeast corners of the river valley and ravine system that were previously unplanned. Following the completion of the Ribbon of Green SW+NE in 2020, the City will begin updating the strategic guidance for the remainder of the river valley and ravine system, including the central area and areas south of 41 Avenue SW.
After the future planning area updates are complete, this work will be brought together with the Ribbon of Green SW+NE into one comprehensive Ribbon of Green plan.
The Ribbon of Green project will follow the direction and guidance provided through BREATHE, a transformative strategy to make sure that as the city grows, each neighbourhood will be supported by a network of open space for the next 30 years. The Ribbon of Green will follow the direction established in this document including the three key theme areas: Ecology, Wellness and Celebration.
The river valley is a critical ecosystem and this project will highlight and support natural ecological processes by respecting the river environment and the surrounding habitat for animals such as birds, fish and moose as well as plants and trees.
Edmontonians treasure the river valley and appreciate opportunities to connect with nature within the city. Each study area offers opportunities for health and well-being as well as places for people to be physically active and recharge mentally.
The river valley has tremendous historic and cultural significance that begins with a long history of use by Indigenous communities. Also, throughout the river valley, there are opportunities for people to connect with each other and build a sense of place. When creating conceptual plans for the study areas, significant historical and cultural locations as well as key places for communities to thrive, gather and celebrate will be planned for.