Posted on
September 22, 2022
by
Ali Abdalla
As part of The City of Calgary’s commitment to make affordable housing more readily available to individuals and families living on lower incomes, a groundbreaking event was held today for a new 135-unit, mixed-income affordable housing redevelopment at Rundle Manor (4225 26 Avenue N.E.). The project is expected to be completed in Q1 2024.
In June 2021, Calgary Housing Company closed the original Rundle Manor affordable housing residential complex as it was no longer practical to make major investments into the 40-year-old building. In its place, a new affordable housing residence is being redeveloped on the property.
The City, along with the Provincial and Federal Governments, have invested over $51.4M in the decommissioning of the old, and the redevelopment of the new, Rundle Manor affordable housing complex.
The new residence will feature a mix of one- two- three- and four-bedroom homes and will accommodate individuals and families living on lower incomes. In addition, more than 20 per cent of the homes will provide barrier free access.
"One of the most important investments we can make for Calgary's future is in affordable housing," said Mayor Jyoti Gondek. "Rundle Manor is a critical part of our strategy to build inclusive and resilient communities by providing more readily available affordable homes. Projects such as this transcend four walls and a roof – they transform lives and give families an opportunity for growth and stability.
The redevelopment site meets key criteria The City of Calgary uses to select sites for affordable housing, including nearby community amenities like groceries, transit, schools, parks and recreation areas.
“All Calgarians deserve to have a rooftop over their head,” said Ward 10 Councillor Andre Chabot. “With a variety of nearby amenities, the Rundle Manor affordable housing redevelopment site provides residents with a seamless integration into the community. It will help keep vulnerable residents off the streets while also reducing demand and pressure on emergency services, hospitals and correction facilities.”
The City engaged with the Rundle community on the building and site design in September 2019 and July 2020, to determine the best way to design new affordable housing in Rundle.
"When the decision was made to close Rundle Manor we looked forward to the day when we would gather here to celebrate the start of construction on its replacement," said Bo Jiang, VP Asset & Maintenance for Calgary Housing Company. "We cannot be more excited with how this project has progressed - there will be more homes, they will be built to current standards, they will be sustainable and meet the needs of those seeking housing support. I believe these homes will be a fantastic addition that will enhance the community."
The Rundle Manor redevelopment is part of The City’s direction to ensure that low-income Calgarians have a safe, stable place to call home in all neighbourhoods across the city.
Once complete, Rundle Manor will be a key contributor to Calgary Housing Company’s transition to a mixed-market rental model. The units will be rented at 10 per cent or more below Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation market rents for the area and tenant eligibility needs to meet maximum income thresholds.
