New affordable homes in Calgary’s Bridgeland community

With support from the Alberta and federal governments, the City of Calgary and private fundraising, non-profit housing provider Forward Housing developed the Bishop’s Manor complex, which offers 104 suites, from one to four bedrooms, and shared spaces, including a community garden, rooftop terrace and play area for children. The complex also features a spiritual wellness room where residents can meditate, pray, smudge or worship, intended to help create a welcoming and inclusive community.

This project is an example of how Alberta’s government is taking action to support more affordable housing options that meet the needs of Albertans with low income. Stronger Foundations: Alberta’s 10-year strategy to improve and expand affordable housing ensures Alberta’s affordable housing system is financially sustainable and able to address growing demand.

“A safe, stable and affordable home is the foundation for success and prosperity. Alberta’s government is proud to support Forward Housing and Bishop’s Manor residents who now have a stable place to call home. Strategic, long-term partnerships is a key initiative under our Stronger Foundations affordable housing strategy and will help us meet Alberta’s diverse needs now and in the future.”

“Forward Housing’s goal was to build a community in Calgary where low-income households of all ages, abilities, nations and experiences could safely and affordably build their lives. That mission has been accomplished. With the financial support of all three levels of government and the private sector, we can truly say that Bishop’s Manor was built for the community by the community.”

This project created more than 160 jobs during the planning, design and construction of the facility. Bishop’s Manor is now fully occupied.

Quick facts

• The Bishop’s Manor budget was about $22.4 million and included:
  • $16 million from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation Rental Construction Financing initiative
  • $6 million from the Government of Alberta
  • $430,864 from the City of Calgary
• Stronger Foundations reflects advice from the 2020 Affordable Housing Review Panel to redefine the government’s role, tap into community expertise, expand partnerships and simplify the affordable housing system.
• Stronger Foundations outlines the changes needed to provide safe, stable, affordable housing in Alberta.
• Alberta’s government will increase the number of households served by 25,000 over the next 10 years, to a total of 82,000.
• Alberta Seniors and Housing’s Capital Plan 2022 allocates $281 million over three years to provide 2,300 new and regenerated affordable housing units while maintaining the 26,700-unit provincially owned portfolio and creating more than 1,700 jobs.