Looks like the proposed McMaster University campus in downtown Burlington cleared another hurdle this past week with the approval, by the university's governors, of moving their executive MBA program to the new facility.
There is a bit of mumbling and groaning from some quarters about the proposed location of the campus. There are even some suggestions that the school should be built on a larger plot of land removed from downtown with ample parking. I disagree 100%.
The only place for this campus is downtown. It is a smart use of the space (less urban sprawl - more intensification, easy access to cyclists, walkers and transit users) and would be an excellent boost to the cities vital, local economy. Smart cities know how important a vibrant downtown is to their future success and overall livability.
The second piece of news is the announcement of the commitment to fund a portion of the performance arts centre by the federal government. This is so cool and really will add to the cultural life in this 'burban city. Rumours abound that, if this project goes ahead, the building will be a Leed certified facility with hopefully a green roof and geothermal HVAC.
