Calgary Housing breaks ground on Southview, largest project in its history

Calgary Housing has broken ground on Southview, the largest development project in the company's history, a multi-phase build expected to house more than 1,000 Calgarians when both phases are completed.

Phase 1 is a mid-rise development with 250 homes in a mix of one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom layouts, serving more than 600 Calgarians. Ten per cent of the units will be barrier-free, and the buildings will exceed the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings, or NECB 2020, a national standard for energy performance in new buildings.

The site sits just off International Avenue, also known as 17 Avenue S.E., on land that formerly held provincial social housing. The location is near grocery stores, schools, parks, public transit, restaurants, health care and childcare, and is a short drive from downtown.

Southview marks a major milestone in Calgary Housing's role as a developer. These homes will help address the housing need that has grown in the city in recent years and is a wonderful example of the Government of Alberta's Stronger Foundations affordable housing strategy in action.Bo Jiang, Calgary Housing interim President and CEO

Mayor Jeromy Farkas said council supported a $31.2 million capital investment in the development during City budget deliberations last November. The project is also supported by funding from The City of Calgary, the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada.

Every Calgarian deserves the dignity of a safe place to call home. That why breaking ground on phase one of this major affordable housing development is an important step for Calgary.Mayor Jeromy Farkas

Southview will be operated as part of Calgary Housing's mixed income housing portfolio, offering a range of rents. Rents just below market rates help fund more deeply affordable rents and maintenance costs, eliminating the need for operating funding from governments.

Ward 9 Councillor Harrison Clark said the development delivers on good density and truly affordable housing, with more than 1,000 new residents across both phases living in a mixed-income community with homes ranging from one to four bedrooms. Amenities include live-work units, co-working spaces, a residents' lounge, rooftop patio, secure bike storage and landscaped surroundings.

Southview development is exactly the kind of thoughtful, inclusive growth Calgary needs more of as we continue to build our city.Ward 9 Councillor Harrison Clark

Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services Nathan Neudorf said Southview is a great example of governments and community partners working together to increase housing supply and help more Albertans find a place to call home. Corey Hogan, Parliamentary Secretary and Member of Parliament for Calgary Confederation, speaking on behalf of federal Housing Minister Gregor Robertson, said the project will create lasting benefits for families and future residents.