Bearspaw First Nation erects tipis west of Calgary to represent future development
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The brightly coloured tipis, located on the south side of Highway 1, just west of Calaway Park, were erected to represent the Bearspaw First Nation's plans with partner Durum Capital to eventually develop the area.
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The tipis, which were designed by a Stoney Nakoda artist, are on a 298-acre land holding where the Nation is exploring a master development plan that may include business, medical, residential, and cultural components. A working group for the project will include Bearspaw Nation, Rocky View County and community members.
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This is Bearspaw's first off-reserve economic pursuit; the land holding is approximately 15 kilometres east of the Nation's reserve.
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'These tipis are not just a reminder of who we are, they are a symbol of where we're going,' said Chief Darcy Dixon, in the release. 'They reflect our culture, our values, and our commitment to growing a strong and self-reliant future, alongside our neighbours in Rocky View County.
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'This is about creating a future where Bearspaw members participate fully in the economy while
preserving and celebrating our identity.'
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The Bow Water and Land Trust currently holds a historic water license on the land. The license, managed by Durum, will allow for the diversion of up to 1,080 acre-feet of water annually.
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Bearspaw's development will be near and across the highway from Bingham Crossing, a future shopping complex in Springbank anchored by a Costco.
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It won't be the only Indigenous-led development happening just outside of Calgary's limits in the coming years.
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Earlier this year, the Tsuut'ina Nation launched home sales and construction of Taza Park, a 470-acre urban village that, at full buildout, will include 6,500 homes and one million square feet of commercial space. That development, a partnership between Tsuut'ina Nation and Candarel, will be on Tsuut'ina's land just south of the Grey Eagle Casino and Event Centre.
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