Seven long and hard years ago Quebec lost its GM plant and the town of Boisbriand took a major hit.
1, 500 people - the last of what was once a workforce of 4,700 - were instantly unemployed.
Though more scenarios like this may occur in the future the subsequent, gradual revival of Boisbriand - minus the car industry - spells hope for other car-reliant towns who may think that without the car they have nothing.
Q: What did Boisbriand do?
A: It transformed the GM land into an eco-friendly neighbourhood.
During the time the town was suffering from the loss of GM tax revenue, a developer bought the site, decontaminated the land (thanks for the memories and toxic trail, GM) and started turning it into a residential, commercial and business city - now certified green.
As well, “developers are going to great lengths to make it pedestrian-friendly. They’re also taking steps to reduce erosion, collect rainwater for irrigation and make homes more energy efficient.”
And when it is complete “the city can expect to generate a lot more tax revenue than before.”
So, there will be life in some cities after the automobile, and it will likely be a better life.
Read full story, Life After GM, at -
http://www.ottawasun.com/money/2009/07/02/10005401.html
***
Oshawa and Windsor should take note. Blaze a new trail. Eco-friendly is the future.
.
No comments:
Post a Comment