2 minute read
Southwinds calling
BY STACIE GAETZ
If preservation of natural land and breathing in fresh air on long walks are important in your life, Southwinds is the community for you.
The neighbourhood combines attractive natural elements such as a reconstructed wetland with a desirable community layout – including several parks and pathways – and distinct home designs with impressive architectural details.
“Prior to construction of the stormwater pond, thousands of the existing natural plant species were harvested and grown in a greenhouse while construction activities were ongoing,” says Mathew Simmons, manager of land development with Mattamy Homes.
“When construction was complete, those species were then strategically re-planted into the area to simulate the original natural environment and restore those habitats.”
More than 3.5 acres of the greater storm pond area are wetlands, dedicated as an Environmental Reserve area. Mattamy will also be preserving an additional 12.5 acres of the Dry Creek wetland corridor in their expansion to ensure the community continues growing in an environmentally sustainable way.
PLANNED EXPANSION
Southwinds is Mattamy Homes’ second community in southwest Airdrie, building off the success of Windsong. The community is located just west of Eighth Street and south of 40th Avenue.
With development of the original 144 acres approaching full buildout in the coming years, Mattamy recently purchased an additional 154 acres that will allow Southwinds to expand west towards 24th Street with development of the new area expected to begin in 2022.
“Southwinds has been thoughtfully designed to ensure pedestrians and cyclists can safely and easily get from one destination to the next, through a network of pathways and sidewalks,” says Simmons.
“Regarding walkability, we believe that neighbourhoods become walkable when attractive pathways lead to important destinations. The Southwinds plan caters to local residents by providing great pathway connectivity, promoting active transportation modes like walking and biking.”
Full buildout of Southwinds will have approximately 1,800 homes and is expected to be completed in 2027.
“Southwinds has it all – from natural amenities, parks and pathways, two future school sites, close proximity to all your local shopping needs (at Cooper’s Town Promenade), and easy access in and out of the community,” adds Simmons.
“It’s already a great place to live and we have exciting plans for our expansion. We will build on our existing amenities by adding a bike skills pump track, dog park, more regional pathways and a local commercial area. Additionally, there will be a 43-acre site that will be the future home of a Rocky View School’s high school and a City of Airdrie recreation centre.” life
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