Quote:
Originally Posted by Bunk
I'd say the biggest advantage of Vancouver over Calgary (besides natural scenery) is that it's 15-20 years ahead in terms of reurbanizing its core (naturally, because it's a much larger city). Vancouver has done a better job than just about anyone in creating a liveable and vibrant core - largely by creating a critical mass of residential population. They also have done an exceptional job maintaining a very high standard of urban design. Calgary's largely on the same path (partially because lots of Vancouver developers are becoming active in Calgary), lots of good stuff happening, but will naturally take some time to catch up.
The advantage Calgary will have is that it will continue to have a thriving and growing Central Business District, but also add big residential populations, creating a good balance. Vancouver's economy is such that they've virtually only added residential population to its downtown. Starts to feel a bit like a high rise suburb to Burnaby or Richmond.
|
Great post, bunk.
One thing I don't get is people complaining about the traffic and getting places, but I think that's probably do with Calgary culture transplant.
In Calgary, you drive everywhere, therefore, when you get to a city that is not engineered to drive everywhere, it makes things seem like a pain in the ass to get around, when in actual fact, everything is more accessible negating the need to drive.
Calgarians and their driving. It's is a definitive thing when they visit.
"Let's go grab a bite."
"Ok, who's driving?"
"Uhm, nobody, it's a 10 minute walk."
A significant part of that is obviously climate. It's never too cold for me to walk outside for up to 45 minutes or wait at a bus stop at night for 20.
Another significant part though is the car culture of Alberta.