Jane’s Walk is named after the late urban theorist Jane Jacobs (1916-2006). With roots in both the U.S. and Canada, Jacobs was one of the first “big picture” planner-types to question the direction of urban growth in the the post-WWII period where the mass market popularity of motor vehicles led to sprawling suburbs that raised all sorts of questions related to sustainable development and human health and well-being.
To help reconnect people with street-life Jane’s Walk was started in Toronto in 2007. It consists of guided walking tours of select neighbourhoods, where people learn about their status today, and how they’ve evolved over the years. It’s since spread to cities across North America and around the world. Thanks to the efforts of Regina Urban Ecology and other community partners in Regina, we’ve had a walk here for six years now.
You can find out more about Jane’s Walk 2014 here. Some of the walks that have been confirmed include: Marci Brisbourne on the past, present, and future of Coronation Park. Sharon Pratchler on opportunities to green Regina’s urban landscape — from vegetable gardens to green alleys. Conservationist Jim Elliott explores the natural and built history around Wascana Lake. Ross Herrington and Brian Wagner share stories of 14th Ave. from 1910-1930. Bike Regina hosts their 3rd annual Jane’s Bike. Nicole Huck leads a community parade to visit playgrounds in the Heritage neighbourhood. Jon Pradinuk, Jennifer Barrett and Sheri Birkeland discuss past city plans — what was realized, and what was left at the drawing table. Rob Hubick from Heritage Regina leads a walking tour of the Warehouse District (pictured). Spoken word artist Shayna Stock explores poetry and place in downtown Regina.
