THE CITY OF Langford - PLANNING FOR ITS PEOPLE |
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Located west of downtown Victoria, a short drive from the waterfront, the City of Langford has emerged as one of the regions dynamic commercial and residential hubs. The city was incorporated in 1992 and encompasses a large area divided into distinct districts such as Glen Lake, Happy Valley, Florence Lake, Langford Proper, Thetis Heights and Goldstream. Each district serves as a functional core for community life, providing not only necessary amenities, but a gathering place as well. A comprehensive and progressive approach to planning has raised Langfords profile and added to its appeal. To a striking location that already lends itself to an active and healthy lifestyle has been added a variety of housing options designed to meet the needs of a diverse demographic: from families seeking affordable housing alternatives to senior citizens looking to downsize and enjoy retirement in a safe, caring community where everything they are looking for is close at hand. Central to the Langford lifestyle is recreation. The area is rich in natural assets with a large number of lakes including Langford Lake, Glen Lake and Florence Lake. The ever-popular Goldstream Park also has a provincial campground and is famous for its annual salmon spawn. An extensive network of trails affords ample opportunity for walking and cycling with everything from scenic paths for a casual stroll to challenging terrain for more adventurous spirits. Throughout the area, abundant green space enhances quality of life on so many levels. Tennis and golf are just two of the popular outdoor options. Indoor options are plentiful as well. Langfords new sportsplex is just one of the key components in the citys commitment to building the kind of community that attracts families of all ages. The sportsplex, slated for completion in City Centre Park this year, features a family bowling centre and a new ice arena that utilizes the newest cutting edge, environmentally innovative technology. The bowling centre fills a void that will draw people from throughout the region, and the ice arena addresses the growing demand for more ice time for minor hockey teams on the West Shore. A one of its kind ice river will connect the arena to the outdoor family skating area, which also converts to a splash park during the summer months. Enhanced transportation options promise to make Langford an even more desirable home. The fundamental objective of the transportation plan is separating transit from regular vehicle traffic. The free Langford Trolley runs on bio-diesel. Reduced congestion, reduced travel time, and increased comfort and safety are the promised benefits for transit riders and drivers alike, and the better movement of people and goods will serve businesses throughout the entire capital regional district. Enhanced transit alternatives will also make it easier for people to choose to leave their cars at home, with obvious environmental bonuses. Langford has been widely recognized for its progressive spirit and commitment to identifying innovative ways of addressing community needs. Initiatives address transportation and clean air options, and the municipal administration is receptive to proposals and suggestions on how to best serve Langford area residents and tourists. Langfords leadership in developing new green spaces and alternative commuter trails, notably the Langford Trail Master Plan, is an integral aspect of the communitys identity as especially family-oriented and environmentally conscious. In short, Langford has shown itself to be determined and proactive in its approach to planning and building a community that caters to family life. The arts have not been neglected, either, as demonstrated by events such as the Arts in the Park festival, ongoing throughout the summer. Music in the Park feature local artists and entertainers, as well as a variety of touring musicians. Both families and businesses are finding in Langford a welcoming community dedicated to facilitating the health and prosperity of its members. Whats more, Langfords ability and willingness to work with businesses looking to expand or relocate helps ensure that more improvements that benefit the community are on the way. For more on Langford, visit www.cityoflangford.ca Photo Courtesy of Jennifer Callioux |
