It's no surprise home renovations are on the minds of many Canadians in spring. It is after all, a time of renewal.

But this year it appears more Canadians are in the reno mood according to findings in the Scotiabank Mortgage Landscape Study. It says 44 per cent of Canadian homeowners are planning significant renovations to their homes in the next two years.

One component of the $31.5 million-redevelopment plan along Memorial Drive known as The Landscape of Memory, is the opening of Poppy Plaza scheduled for June 8.

Located at 1111 Memorial Drive NW, Poppy Plaza aligns with the vision of Memorial Drive focusing on themes of remembrance, legacy and history.

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.