Calgary's Housing Overhaul: A Year of Blanket Rezoning and Its Unfolding Impact

One year ago, Calgary embarked on a monumental shift in its urban planning, implementing a city-wide blanket rezoning bylaw, now known as R-G, with the ambitious goal of tackling a burgeoning housing affordability crisis. As the first anniversary of this transformative policy passes, city officials are taking stock, revealing a complex tapestry of progress, persistent challenges, and ongoing debate that continues to shape the city's future.

The bylaw, which passed in April 2023, largely eliminated the need for individual rezoning applications for many multi-residential housing projects across the city, aiming to streamline development and increase housing supply.

Proponents argued it was a necessary, bold move to provide more housing options and bring down costs by boosting inventory. Critics, however, voiced concerns over potential strains on existing infrastructure, parking issues, and the erosion of established neighbourhood character.

A significant observation from city administration is the undeniable surge in development interest.

Since the bylaw's inception, Calgary has seen over 1,600 applications for multi-residential permits, with more than 300 already issued under the new zoning. This uptick in applications signals a clear response from the development community, eager to capitalize on the newfound predictability and reduced bureaucratic hurdles that the blanket rezoning offers.

Developers have largely welcomed the change, citing clearer guidelines and a faster path to bringing projects to fruition.

Mayor Jyoti Gondek remains a staunch advocate, emphasizing that the policy's core intent was to provide housing choice and diversify options for Calgarians. She acknowledges that while the numbers are promising in terms of development interest, the full impact on affordability will take time to materialize as units are built and enter the market.

The Mayor also points to the ongoing need for public education, recognizing that many residents still grapple with understanding the bylaw's nuances and its implications for their communities.

The reflections from councillors offer a microcosm of the city's broader sentiment. Ward 11 Councillor Kourtney Penner echoes the sentiment regarding increased predictability for developers, a key benefit for accelerating housing projects.

Conversely, Ward 7 Councillor Terry Wong voices continued concerns, particularly regarding the need for better communication with residents about planned developments and the potential strain on existing infrastructure as density increases. Ward 10 Councillor Andre Chabot remains skeptical, arguing that the policy hasn't demonstrably solved the affordability crisis and advocates for alternative, market-based solutions.

In contrast, Ward 12 Councillor Evan Spencer views the blanket rezoning as a crucial and necessary step towards creating more diverse and accessible housing options for a growing city.

The city's administration underscores that while the increase in permit applications is a positive indicator of the policy's effectiveness in stimulating development, the true measure of its success—its impact on housing affordability—will require more time and data.

Housing development is a lengthy process, and the benefits of increased supply typically lag behind policy implementation. Therefore, the coming years will be crucial in evaluating whether Calgary's bold housing gamble truly pays off in making the city more affordable for its residents.

One year in, Calgary's blanket rezoning is a policy in motion, generating both enthusiasm and apprehension.

It represents a significant commitment to addressing a critical urban challenge, and its evolution will undoubtedly remain a central topic in the city's ongoing discourse about growth, development, and community well-being.