Developing the community provides an essential service to the University by delivering a vibrant neighbourhood that enhances the University of Calgary’s global reputation. Over our years of operation, we have pursued this mandate, from our master planning process to implementation through the construction and sales program, thus creating a community which will be connected, leading-edge, and benefit to the entire city of Calgary.
Location
& History
The Location & History of University District Lands
We’ve Come a Long Way
The Province of Alberta transferred the West Campus lands — now known as University District — to the University of Calgary in 1995. The collection of ideas, concepts, and plans have laid the groundwork for our early successes.
History of the Lands
The province of Alberta first purchased the land — originally named the Higher Education Reserve (HER) — by order in council in 1965 with the goal of
preserving the lands for higher education purposes. Beginning in 1968, the university continually lobbied the government to transfer the lands to the
Board of Governors.
The land remained empty until the mid-90s — although the university did seek approval in 1966 to police and maintain the portion of the reserve that was set aside for a tree nursery. In 1991, a large landfill site grew from the soil taken out during excavation of the Professional Faculties Building.
By the approach of the university’s 25th anniversary in the early 1990s, the university increased its efforts to have the title transferred, which occurred on March 29, 1995. The Board of Governors created West Campus Development Trust in 2011 to oversee the development of the plans for the site. The area underwent another name change in 2015: University District.
These lands will help the university enhance its reputation on a national and international level by providing an integrated urban community that will attract key faculty, researchers, and students. Based on a unique and proven development model, project site net cash flow from the development of these lands will go to the University of Calgary in support of its future initiatives.
Location
University District is immediately west of the University of Calgary campus, bound by 32 Avenue, Shaganappi Trail, and 16 Avenue NW. The area incorporates the majority of the land west of the Olympic Oval.
A Vibrant Community Destination
Our Vision
As leaders in sustainable real estate development, we’re shaping the future of our city.
See Our Vision
Master Plan
We’re building a master-planned landmark community to enhance the University of Calgary and the city of Calgary as a whole.
View Master Plan
Our Process
We strive to improve the University experience whole harmonizing with surrounding communities.
See Our ProcessFinancial Return
UCPG will transform the lands, generating a financial return on investment, while remaining committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. All project site net cash flow will go back to support future university initiatives.
Partnerships
If you’re interested in partnering with a collaborative, growing organization, connect with us. We are curating our retail main street where there will be availability for both retail and office tenants. Opportunities also exist for builders of residential projects and these sites may be advertised through a Request for Proposals process.
Become a Partner