Foothills + McMahon

Location Calgary, AB
Type Concept Plan
Client City of Calgary

B&A led a team of industry experts to create a visionary Concept Plan for the Foothills + McMahon lands. 

The 100-acre site owned by the City of Calgary and the University of Calgary is a highly visible, well-used amenity for users throughout Calgary and the region. With an up-and-coming investment in a new fieldhouse within the site, the landowners wished to create a single, comprehensive plan for the area that is reflective of the needs of its many stakeholders and progressive best practices nationally and internationally. To achieve this, B&A assembled a professional consultant team matched to the task, including our award-winning urban designers, planners, and engagement experts, along with Subject Matter Experts in recreation planning, transportation, stadium architecture, landscape architecture, market analysis, transportation, and civil engineers.  

 In addition, B&A designed and led a communications and engagement strategy to effectively engage the public during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through the creation of a project website, the use of online technology, a series of inclusive online meetings, and video postings, B&A delivered an innovative transparent City-wide engagement. The engagement strategy included a three-phased public process with a virtual design charrette and online surveys. 

 The Concept Plan contemplated a mix of recreational uses, entertainment venues, housing, accommodations, public space, and post-secondary educational facilities, and leverages transit proximity to make this a unique city-building opportunity for Calgary.  

 The Plan was unanimously approved by Committee and Council in September 2021. B&A has been awarded an additional contract to coordinate and Social Return on Investment Analysis to further support the redevelopment planning effort. 

Images courtesy of Designcorp Ltd.