Kathryn 君妍 Lennon

Between 1978-1980, it seems like some real thought and work was put into creating a plan for Edmonton’s Chinatown. Where did that information go? Why doesn’t the content of this plan get referenced in current discussions? Is it still relevant? Maybe there is some wisdom to be found in the past, because it seems like these conversations are still on our minds.

From the Future of Chinatown – Downtown Plan Working Paper 1, Area Planning Section, Planning Department, City of Edmonton, January 1978:

“While Chinatown’s future is uncertain by virtue of redevelopment and expansion of the City core, the following factors will have some influence on any future plans for Chinatown:

a) Chinatown meets the daily needs of the elderly and newly-arrived immigrants;

b) Chinatown strengthens cultural heritage and diversity;

c) Chinatown provides a setting for some unique business opportunities;

d) Contains a strong supportive population (community spirit and belief in the viability of this neighbourhood).

Here is the introduction by Dick Wong, from the Edmonton Chinatown Planning Committee –Progress Report No.2, January 1978.

You can have a look at the full content of all the reports here. All reports were obtained digitally from the City of Edmonton, and are available to the public. They are also available in hard copy at the City of Edmonton Archives.

Edmonton Chinatown Planning Committee –Progress Report No.2, January 1978

Future of Chinatown – Downtown Plan Working Paper 1, Area Planning Section, Planning Department, City of Edmonton, January 1978

Revised Chinatown Plan-1980, Forming Part of the Proposed Boyle Street McCauley Area Redevelopment Plan, City of Edmonton, Planning Department, Community Planning Branch