opportunities. “Geographically, we’re very fortunate we’re the cornerstone of Highway 11. We have thousands of vehicles going through our community on a daily basis,” Prevost emphasizes. Housing remains a top priority, with Politis stressing the need to address the entire housing continuum, from affordable housing to senior living. “We’re working with Habitat for Humanity to pilot new models, including tiny homes and high-density apartments, and allow people who maybe are on the line or just before the line to be able to afford a place to live,” Politis states. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure housing remains accessible as the town grows. While expansion is essential, Cochrane is committed to preserving its small-town charm. By aligning PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Gerry’s Enterprises 1-705-272-5975 • office@gerrysenterprises.ca economic expansion with community values, Cochrane is positioning itself as a model for smalltown development in Northern Ontario. A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR COCHRANE Cochrane is proving that small towns can have big ambitions, blending economic growth, infrastructure expansion, and community-driven initiatives to create a sustainable future. “We just completed a strategic plan that has six different pillars within our community to guide us over the next number of years,” says Prevost. “My focus will be on growth in housing and commercial development along our Highway 11 corridor.” Mayor Politis echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that housing remains the town’s top priority. “We need to develop housing to facilitate all of this growth. You can have all these great ideas, but if you can’t house people, you’re not able to realize them,” he states. As the town continues to evolve, its leadership remains focused on ensuring that Cochrane’s growth is as sustainable as it is ambitious. 60 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 03
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