By Kelsey Hipkin
Nestled in the northwest corner of Calgary, the communities of Royal Oak and Rocky Ridge with their pathway systems, mountain views and wetlands can make one forget they are even living in a city.
“I fell in love with these communities because of the majestic views of the Rocky Mountains and the unique landscapes including several environmentally sensitive wetland ponds,” said Monique Chiasson, community engagement director with the Rocky Ridge Royal Oak Community Association (RRROCA). “There is a wonderful pathway system connecting both communities as it winds through the wetlands and treed areas giving you glimpses of the mountains here and there. You may just forget you are even in an urban setting.”
Chiasson explained the communities offer a variety of housing options from single-family to condos to townhouses and retirement residences.
According to the 2012 Civic Census the population of Royal Oak was 11,252 residents, up from 10,979 in 2011. Rocky Ridge had a population of 7,662 according to the Census up from 7,266 in 2011.
A volunteer organization, the RRROCA includes voluntary membership to all residents living within the two communities.
“The RRROCA has a growing presence in the community,” Chiasson said. “It is actively working to encourage community engagement by raising awareness on community issues and hosting well attended community events. Simply put, Rocky Ridge and Royal Oak are progressive communities, caring communities and a wonderful place to call home.”
As mentioned by Chiasson, the green oriented communities include several wetland ponds. As well, the Royal Oak School received a Ducks Unlimited award for an education program pertaining to wetlands.
Keeping with a green theme, is the nearby community of Echo Haven. The neighbourhood, with space for 25 homes, is a sustainable community, which has preserved more than 60 per cent of the existing natural landscape, reduces 80 per cent of grid power compared to the average home and harvests rainwater reducing treated water consumption by 72 per cent.
For transportation and commuters, Royal Oak and Rocky Ridge sit at the intersection of Crowchild and Stoney Trail. There are also several bus stops and the Tuscany CTrain station — scheduled to open in 2014 — will soon provide residents easy access to the city’s LRT system.
The communities also offer up amenities aplenty, which Chiasson, a resident of the area for the last four years can attest to.
“It’s a very exciting time for the residents of these communities as the business parks are quickly expanding,” she said. “From medical facilities, to gas stations, to grocery stores, children care services, banks, drug stores, restaurants and plenty of retail stores; there is certainly something for everyone.”
