The City of Calgary is seeking feedback on a proposal to build housing near an LRT station in the southeast part of the city. The city’s housing strategy, approved by the council last year, includes developing city-owned land near transit stations. The park-and-ride lot on the south side of Franklin Station has been identified as a suitable site for transit-oriented development. City officials see this as a way to move away from using parking lots for cars and instead create housing and business spaces. Coun. Gian-Carlo Carra believes that this development will enhance the neighborhood, especially for nearby communities like Albert Park and Raddison Heights.
Engagement on a concept plan for the site is ongoing, with city officials seeking feedback on the redesign of the area and Radcliffe Drive S.E. Design options include up to three mixed-use buildings, public realm improvements, and different bus stop locations. The city is still in search of a development partner to determine the number of units, both market and non-market, that will be part of the proposal. Some members of the community have expressed concerns about potential spillover effects due to the elimination of parking at the LRT station, while others, like resident Scott Brandon, support the idea of more housing near the station.
The first phase of public engagement on the proposal is set to continue until May 13, with a response to input expected to be released in June. A concept plan and zoning changes for the south lot are planned to be presented to Calgary city council later this year. However, construction and improvements to the public space are not scheduled to begin until 2026. City officials are also evaluating other city-owned and private sites near LRT stations in Calgary for potential transit-oriented development initiatives.
Overall, the City of Calgary is exploring the potential for housing development near transit stations as part of its housing strategy. The focus is on transforming parking lots into spaces for housing and businesses, with the park-and-ride lot on the south side of Franklin Station identified as a pilot site for this initiative. Public engagement is ongoing, with city officials seeking feedback on concept designs and plans for the site. While some community members have expressed concerns about potential impacts, others see the proposal as a way to maximize space and provide more housing options in the area. The city is still in the process of identifying a development partner and determining the details of the proposal, with construction not expected to start until 2026.
