A new development opening its doors next month in southwest Calgary will provide an affordable home-like setting for nearly six dozen people living with mental health issues or brain injuries.

The three-storey, 61-unit apartment-style Bob Ward Residence at 5010 50 St. S.W. is a partnership between the Calgary Homeless Foundation, the Calgary Home Builders Foundation, and the Horizon Housing Society, with the support of all three levels of government.

The project is also a lasting tribute to one of Calgary’s most-recognized realtors, the late Bob “Santa” Ward, a builder, developer and former president of the Calgary Region Home Builders Association, who delighted thousands of kids over the years by dressing up as St. Nick for community and charitable events. Ward died three years ago at the age of 82.

“The industry has done well by the city and this is a chance for the housing industry to give something back to the community,” Calgary Home Builders Foundation president Sandy Cameron said during opening ceremonies last week.

Lisa Dempster photo, Business Edge
The Bob Ward Residence will offer shelter and support for more than 70 people with physical, mental or economic needs.

Diana Ward, Bob’s daughter, recalled that her late father was a grassroots community builder, with much of his activity undertaken behind the scenes.

“It was said that when Bob called, you gave money, no matter what,” she told Business Edge. “Dad built a good life in this city, but he needed to know that others would have that opportunity as well. I know he would be very proud.”

Dozens of local contractors, under the leadership of general contractor Summa Management Ltd., donated supplies, labour and cash to the project, the largest undertaken to date by the foundation. More than $3.81 million has been committed so far to the $4.5 million project.

Besides being a source of hope for several dozen Calgarians facing affordable housing challenges, the development could set a record for a major home-building project coming in under budget and ahead of schedule.

Allan Klassen, president of the Calgary Region Home Builders Association, said that the apartment is opening two months early and $400,000 under budget.

Bob Ward was a well-known Calgary realtor, builder and developer.

“That’s an amazing accomplishment . . . thank God the market was slow,” he joked.

The modest beige-coloured apartment building overlooks the busy Glenmore Trail-Sarcee Trail bend, but reflects a peaceful setting around a quiet courtyard.

The spacious, self-contained suites, many which offer a view of the mountains, range from 350-sq.-ft. studio suites for those with mental illness to a four-bedroom unit and rehabilitation area for residents living with a brain injury. Ten bachelor suites will be reserved for Calgarians living below the poverty line.

The residence will be managed by the Horizon Housing Society, which owns and manages 11 residential complexes in Calgary housing more than 360 tenants.