The federal government, City of Calgary, and private partners have announced a major $83 million initiative to convert a vacant downtown office tower into more than 200 affordable rental units, addressing the city's housing crisis through innovative repurposing of underutilized commercial space.
Transforming Vacant Space into Community Homes
During a news conference on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, officials revealed details of the ambitious project at 800 6th Avenue S.W. that will transform the empty commercial building into a mixed-use residential complex featuring 204 affordable-housing units. The development, named 800 Six West, represents a collaborative effort between multiple levels of government and community organizations.
Calgary Confederation MP Corey Hogan, speaking on behalf of Housing Minister Gregor Robertson, emphasized the project's significance for vulnerable residents. "The impact this investment will have on lives right here in Calgary cannot be overstated," Hogan stated. "It's a chance for a fresh start for many."
Funding Breakdown and Project Timeline
The substantial $83 million funding package includes significant contributions from multiple sources:
- $62 million from the federal government through the National Housing Strategy's Affordable Housing Fund
- $15 million from the City of Calgary
- $900,000 from the Alberta Ecotrust Foundation
- $4.9 million from Astra Group
Construction on the office-to-residential conversion began earlier this year, with completion expected by fall 2026. Maxim Olshevsky, CEO of Astra Group and Peoplefirst Developments, highlighted that this marks their third such conversion project in downtown Calgary.
"800 Six West is a continued demonstration of how underutilized assets can be transformed into part of the housing solution through collaboration across public, private and non-profit sectors," Olshevsky explained in a statement.
Comprehensive Support Services for Residents
Beyond providing housing, the project incorporates essential support services through partnership with Carya Society of Calgary. The non-profit organization will deliver part-time, on-site services including mental health and wellness programs, financial counseling, and community-building activities.
Carya CEO Paula Telfer described the initiative as "a new way of thinking about what belonging can look like in our city." She emphasized that the project goes beyond simple housing provision to create "spaces where people can access not just housing, but connection, support and a true sense of home."
This innovative approach marks the first program of its kind in Alberta, representing a significant shift in how affordable housing is conceptualized and delivered. The project demonstrates how strategic partnerships can address multiple community needs simultaneously while revitalizing underutilized downtown spaces.
The 800 Six West conversion stands as a model for other Canadian cities facing similar challenges of vacant commercial properties and housing shortages, showing how collaborative efforts can create scalable, sustainable solutions to urban housing crises.
