University District welcomed first residents in 2018

University District, the 200-acre community taking shape on the west side of campus, hit many milestones in 2018.

The first residents moved into their homes in University District in July and once development is complete, there will be between 11,000 and 15,000 people living and working in the community. Since the first release of land in 2016, the community has welcomed five new building partners for six separate multifamily projects, a seniors complex and one hotel. The community’s first retail stage is nearly 100-per-cent leased, with a curated selection of national and local retailers like Save-on-Foods, Cineplex VIP Cinemas, J. Webb Market Wines, Analog Coffee, and more, with additional retailers to be announced soon.

This summer, two of the community’s major parks opened and have already become popular gathering spots for new residents and visitors. The Northwest Commons Park is the city’s first PlayCore national demonstration site for inclusive play and a recent City of Calgary Advisory Committee 2018 Universal Design award recipient, while the North Pond and Urban Dog Park feature a dedicated urban-style off-leash area.

The independent West Campus Development Trust (WCDT) was created by the University of Calgary’s board of governors to lead the planning and development of the west campus lands. The WCDT is the first real estate development company of its kind in Alberta. For more information visit myuniversitydistrict.ca.