June 21, 2013 | Cody Stuart

Coming to a River Near You

Boasting "sweeping views of the Rockies", a new development will bring an eco-friendly approach to the banks of the Bow River in Cochrane.

Dubbed Riviera of Riversong, the new community on the south bank of the Bow River, east of Highway 22, will eventually provide a mix of 1,250 single-family, duplex and townhomes. "We're looking forward to showcasing our new development to the thriving town of Cochrane," said Cameron Hart of Tamani Communities, developer of Riviera and sister company of Jayman MasterBUILT. "We believe the opportunities for eco-friendly, active living in Riviera fit in perfectly with the town's emphasis on family, nature and the escape from city chaos that Cochrane offers its residents."

With plenty of tot lots, parks and four kilometres of walking and biking trails, more than 40 per cent of the community's 138-hectares comes in the form of greenspace, with 40 hectares set aside as an environmental preserve. The pathway system along the river will connect area residents with quick access to Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre and the Cochrane Golf Club via a pedestrian bridge with and a landscaped storm pond serving as a natural focal point.

In addition to the natural surroundings, the community's ecofriendly presence will be provided by two wind turbines, which will provide renewable power for the community's exterior lighting. All homes in the community will also be built to BUILTGREEN Gold standards.

Cochrane town council members recently adopted a 2014 Strategic Plan to continue to attract new businesses, residents and tourism. Included in the plan are a beatification project and renewable energy initiatives.

Despite a slight drop in listings, year-to-date home sales in Cochrane have increased by 2.49 per cent through the first five months of 2013. In addition, the average sales price of a home has risen by five per cent while the average number of days a home in the town has spent on the market has dropped substantially, from 100 to just 65.

The first four phases of Riversong consisting of 619 lots have been developed, with phases five and seven also recently finished. The remaining build out for the community is anticipated to be completed over the next six to nine years. For more information on Riviera of Riversong, visit www.rivieracochrane.ca.

Tagged: Cochrane Real Estate | Green Housing | Green Living | Uncategorized