Accessible Housing Calgary has been operating in Calgary for over 40 years with a Vision “to ensure everyone has a home and belongs in Community.” This Accessible Housing development now serves as a place that people with limited mobility may call home, ensuring positive belonging in community through an emphasis on the warmth of home, social connection to the surrounding community and a connection to the natural environment.
The program was developed closely with Accessible Housing Calgary, including discussions with Accessible’s core administration, staff members of Fourth Dimension group home, current residents and surrounding neighbours of the site. The result is a 50,838 sq. ft. residential care building containing 45 studio and one-bedroom units, as well as staff offices, staff overnight rooms, common areas, shared laundry and outdoor spaces overlooking Confederation Park.
At this point early in the development process perhaps one of the greatest successes has been the level of engagement with future residents of the development. We have had multiple opportunities to discuss elements of the project with future residents, as well as opportunities to develop friendships, get to know these individuals on a personal level, and learn about their unique situations of limited mobility. All of these opportunities will surely contribute to the success of the project.