Ground was broken on phase one of a project to deliver a multi-use facility with fire services and future non-market housing in northeast Calgary.
The $16 million first phase, which began with a ceremony in the community of Cornerstone on Wednesday, will have a two-bay fire station, and a household hazardous waste drop-off. Affordable, non-market housing will be included in a future phase of the build.
The two-bay fire station will replace the temporary one-bay location in Skyview Ranch.
“The Cornerstone Multi-Service Development reflects our commitment to integrated civic facility planning and our dedication to serving Calgarians better,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek in a prepared media release.
“This is a responsible investment for our city’s future, one that will yield dividends in public safety, environmental sustainability, and community prosperity.”
According to the City, the new building aligns with council’s direction to identify more efficient land use opportunities, build fewer corporate sites, and reduce operating costs.
The building will be LEED gold certified, have advanced air-quality ventilation, and be designed with low-emitting building materials. There will also be improved acoustic separation between the active and living areas, with indoor environment controls for lighting and daylight, the city said.
Calgary Fire Chief Steve Dongworth said that calls for the Skyview station have doubled already and are expected to continue growing.
“The Cornerstone Fire Station will support Calgarians by enabling the Calgary Fire Department to meet target response times and ensure we can continue to meet the demand for services for Cornerstone and surrounding communities as they continue to grow,” said Chief Dongworth.
The building is expected to be complete by the spring of 2025, the city said.
