Calgary’s East Village is home to the Calgary Foundation CKUA Studio, and the neighbourhood is experiencing renewed growth in recent years.
We asked Ken Peach, President of the East Village Neighbourhood Association, about the history and the recent revitalization of this area in Calgary’s downtown core. “It was a brownfield area, historically, with some old housing. The Calgary Municipal Land Corporation was tasked with creating a master plan to revitalize the whole area.” Now, says Peach, “I’ve lived here for nine years, and we continue to see new developments, including housing.”
Kate Stevens loves hosting her weekday morning program, The Upload, from the Calgary Foundation CKUA Studio. “To feel the energy of people walking by and waving is so wonderful. To feel connected to the community in such a strong way makes me love this neighbourhood even more!” She adds, “I truly am one of the only broadcasters in my radio friend group who has windows, so that’s incredible.”
This month will see the East Village Neighbourhood Association host a special celebration. The third Saturday in June is always Neighbour Day in Calgary, an annual recognition of all the help that neighbours gave each other during the flood of 2013, says Peach. “The mayor wanted to celebrate people helping people.”
This year, in the East Village, celebrations will include a noon barbecue, with music performed by a Latin band. “People can enjoy music and games,” says Peach, “and there will be a number of organizations from the East Village here. We want residents, businesses, and community organizations to have opportunities to meet each other. My hope is that neighbours will feel a sense of belonging.”
You can learn more about the East Village and the plans for Neighbour Day, June 15, 2024 at www.yycevna.org
Happy Neighbour Day, friends!
