Sakaw Seniors' Housing

The City of Edmonton has initiated a process for working with residents and community groups to design a new seniors' residence in the Sakaw neighbourhood.

Background

In 2009, Edmonton Public School Board announced it would not need the school site at the north end of Sakaw Park.

In 2012, City Council designated this site, and seven others, for seniors' housing. The City has selected the Greater Edmonton Foundation, an experienced seniors' housing provider, to develop and operate housing on this site.

To read more about surplus school site development, please visit Surplus School Site FAQ.

Site Rezoning

In October 2012, the site was rezoned for housing. The green space around the development will remain designated for recreational use, and will not be developed.

Project details will be influenced by the public engagement process.

Why Seniors' Housing?

Edmonton's established neighbourhoods have changed over time and continue to evolve. The City must keep these neighbourhoods thriving by providing diverse housing options for residents with various housing preferences and needs.

We need more seniors’ housing as Edmonton’s population ages. In 2006, one in five Edmontonians were over the age of 55. By 2041, one in three residents will be over 55. Surplus school sites dedicated for seniors' housing have access to public transit and are near parks and amenities. Seniors' housing on these sites will allow many seniors to downsize from detached homes while remaining in their community, close to their friends and within a familiar neighbourhood.

Edmonton needs more affordable housing for seniors on fixed incomes. The Greater Edmonton Foundation will provide units for those needing both affordability and accessibility.

Public Engagement Process

The City is looking to local residents and community groups to provide their input into the design of this project.

Public meetings were held on May 26, 2014 and September 11, 2014 to discuss the project with residents and interested stakeholders, and gather initial feedback. Attendees provided valuable input on the potential design of the development and desired amenities. For more information on these meetings, see the links in the related documents sidebar.

No further meetings are planned at this time. Additional details about the timing of construction will be published here when dates are known.

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