Calgary Seeks Public Input on Redevelopment of Vacant Westbrook LRT Land

For over a decade, the land surrounding Calgary's Westbrook LRT station has remained largely undeveloped, characterized by weeds and basic amenities. However, the City of Calgary is now initiating public consultations to shape a master plan for this 4.2-hectare site, aiming to transform it into a vibrant community hub.

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It can become more than just a place to go to and from the CTrain.

Residents who frequent the area expressed a strong desire for a drastically different future for the site. Lifelong resident Maru Mwangi hopes for "a place that's walkable," while Cole Trifunov envisions a space that attracts both residents and visitors, generating foot traffic and giving people a reason to disembark the CTrain. The current desolate landscape contrasts sharply with the potential seen by many Calgarians.

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Just a place that’s walkable.

The city is actively seeking feedback through online surveys and in-person sessions, with the survey running until the end of the month. Ward 8 Coun. Nathaniel Schmidt explained that the land, originally sold to Matco Development in 2016, was repurchased by the city in 2024 due to a lack of progress. The plan involves dividing the site into several parcels to appeal to developers, potentially incorporating a park on the south end facing 17 Avenue to maximize sunlight, complemented by surrounding buildings.

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You (can) make it a place where A) people want to live; and, B) people who live nearby gravitate to. It gives (the area) foot traffic and gives people a reason to get off the LRT here.

Shameer Gaidhar of the Calgary Inner City Builders Association highlighted the rarity of such a parcel with existing infrastructure and surrounding businesses. He noted that developing the site would not only benefit the local economy but also generate significant property tax revenue for the city. The master plan is expected to be completed by the end of 2026, with development potentially beginning thereafter.

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There’s existing infrastructure, existing businesses around there and all will benefit from them from that place being developed. And it’s not a great thing for taxpayers as well, because it’s being taxed on its current use, not its highest and best use… it could be generating income for all Calgarians through property taxes.