In a survey released by Royal LePage, interest rates factor "hugely" into Canadians' decisions when it comes to purchasing a recreational property.

The survey, which polled people intending to purchase a recreation property within the next five years, found 82 per cent of respondents said interest rates will influence their decision to buy while 82 per cent feel added urgency to buy a recreation property while rates are low.

The City of Calgary has $52 million of provincial tax room kicking around and is asking local residents how best to spend it.

"This is a significant amount of unbudgeted money," said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. "We've debated five options in council—all of which reflect the priorities of Calgarians— and this is our opportunity to engage citizens to hear what they think before council makes a decision in July."

Tucked away in a Bow River valley 15 minutes away from Calgary, the Town of Cochrane is a mix of big city amenities and small town charm situated a stone's throw from the Rocky Mountains.

"Cochrane is a small, friendly community with big hearts," said resident Kim Cruickshank.

A central farmer's market; a revitalized shopping district; a haven for pedestrians and cyclists – these are just a few of the ideas being suggested for the redevelopment of the western end of downtown Calgary.

Located next to the Bow River, Millennium Park, the central business district and the first stop on the city's new West LRT line, the community of Downtown West is up for a new area redevelopment plan (ARP) that could help reshape the area.