EV in 2020: More City, More Life
Eleven years ago, East Village master developer CMLC promised to create a new way of living in the city. Now, the neighbourhood that’s taken shape puts the best of city life at Calgarians’ fingertips: connectivity to public transit, and walkability and cyclability everywhere; proximity to cultural landmarks and entertainment; and even a direct path to nature.
East Villagers are living their best lives, and there’s still a ton to get excited about in 2020. We’re getting ready for big transformation, with more buzz, bounce and bites than ever. Keep reading to see what’s in store (literally).
Groceries Galore
5th & THIRD is so close, we can almost taste it! This 230,000 square foot shopping centre is scheduled to open in summer 2020, bringing a Real Canadian Superstore, Scotiabank, TD Canada Trust and Winners to the neighbourhood, with other retailers to be announced soon. This addition will not only be a huge convenience for East Villagers, but for all our inner-city neighbours, too. Say goodbye to weekend pilgrimages to the ‘burbs!
Ideas & Innovation Come to EV
The future of East Village sure looks bright – and innovative. The 9th Avenue Parkade & Innovation Centre will combine 500+ parking stalls across 5 levels with a dedicated space for Platform Calgary, who is helping our city become a global hub for startups and innovation.
Even cooler? When we’re all living like the Jetsons and automated cars are the norm, the building can convert to commercial or residential spaces! The building’s construction is set to wrap up at the end of 2020 and will be open to the public in early 2021.
The Bounce Games Park Returns
Our ultra-popular urban sport court is back for another year at the corner of 4th St & 8th Ave SE! When the weather warms up, start packing your workout gear and a ball, because you’ll want to get in on the action at The Bounce’s regular pick-up games. Beyond a full-sized basketball court for both regular and 3x3 games, The Bounce also includes hop-scotch, four-square, outdoor ping-pong, twister, and two colourful murals by local artist duo MAUD.
Two New Businesses Move Into M2
That cool-looking, zig-zagging building along RiverWalk, right next-door to the Simmons Building? That’s M2, a mixed-use building in which two local businesses will open in 2020 –Bow Cycle & Sports and a restaurant by Concorde Entertainment Group. They’ll join Harvest, North West Capital and XYC Design + Development – three companies already operating in the above office spaces.
Bees Are Back!
In summer 2020, the neighbourhood will once again be abuzz when urban beekeeping returns! The Hive in East Village is a sustainability and biodiversity project that we’ve partnered on with local beekeeper and honey producer, MOB Honey. You’ll be able to learn all about urban beekeeping from MOB at workshops, where you’ll get suited up to go inside the enclosure for a hands-on experience.
Explore and Imagine the Future of Places
In the Castell Building (the former Central Library) you’ll find the City Building Design Lab by UCalgary’s School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape. Inside, the City Building Gallery features exhibitions from community partners and alumni, and delves into broad explorations and discussions about city building. If you’re an urban design enthusiast, you’ll want to visit this space often – and luckily, you can! The City Building Gallery is open seven days a week, from 12pm to 6pm.
