There is an empty lot on the NW corner of 14 St & 24 Ave SW the Bankview Community Association intend to turn into community space. This first step is an engagement process to helps us understand what our neighbours would like to see there.

The Bankview Community Association hopes that by animating the empty lot we can create a gathering place for the residents of the community and enhance the existing space to take advantage of the Calgary skyline view. The proposed temporary park is adjacent to nearby cafes and eateries in the community of Bankview.

Special thanks to the current landowner for agreeing to let us use the space while it sits vacant. The land will one day make way for a development but in the meantime let’s use it to add some awesome park space to Bankview.

Higgy’s Bluff is led by Maureen Hodgan, Chad Peters, Janet Turchak and Matt Worona. Thanks to the City of Calgary, Evan Woolley’s Ward 8 Constituency Office and Calgary Foundation for funding the online, in-person, and on-site engagement for this project.

Frequently Asked Questions about Higgy’s Bluff

Who owns the land?

A private landowner owns the land which is split into 4 parcels.

Do you have permission to use the land?

We have spoken to the landowner and we have permission to use the land. We have assured the owner that it be clear this project is a temporary use and that the Bankview Community Association would be taking over liability for the site while we occupy it as a temporary park.

Higgy’s Bluff is an interesting name, why did you choose it?

Just a block away at 14 St and 25 Ave SW there used to be a pharmacy called Higginbotham’s. This was a place where you could get a fountain pop and meet your neighbours. We are trying to create that gathering space here and Higginbotham’s was that kind of space long ago. We tried to marry the history of the past with our vision for the future of this site. Also, it’s a bluff!

How quickly do you think you can complete the project? When can I enjoy this wonderful space with my neighbours?

The fastest possible project completion date would be early Fall but timelines are tight and much of that depends on funding and some behind the scenes agreements.

How long would it stay?

This space would be a 4 season public space and would stay while this land sits vacant. Development on the site would trigger dismantling of the temporary park.

How can I help?

You can get involved by joining our organizing team. Community members like yourself are what got this project to where it is and without you this project won’t happen. To volunteer, fill out a volunteer form on our website and note your interest in Higgy’s Bluff.

Once you have a plan for the park what happens next?

We hope to be able to emerge from our engagement process with a plan for the spaces and some preliminary cost estimates. After the engagement, we will look for grant funding and be considering some fundraising models to get the best park possible and deliver on the vision that our neighbours built with us.