Drew Hyndman, Cochrane's executive director of development and infrastructure services, says it's too early to talk about the continuation of James Walker Trail in connection with the announcement that the Southbow Landing could begin as early as this fall.

Hyndman says they have only had a few preliminary meetings with Qualico Communities about their acquisition of the development.

"At this point, it's really premature to talk about the timing of that until we've had some further discussions with Qualico and understand better what their first phases of development look like."

He says the James Walker Trail is part of the town's critical transportation infrastructure on the south side of Cochrane. When completed it will bypass traffic currently going through the Riversong and Precence communities and connect with Hwy. 22.

Traffic congestion along River Heights Dr. has been a major issue for residents in the area.

Southbow landing mapsSouthbow Landing is a 545-acre master-planned community that will be developed in multiple phases. It's adjacent to Riversong and The Willows, as illustrated above. 

On Jan. 30, Qualico Communities announced it has acquired the Southbow Landing development and will be proceeding with the neighborhood plan approved by Cochrane town council in 2015. Should necessary approvals be in place, the developer hopes to break ground in the fall of 2023 for the first phase of development.

Hyndman believes it offers great opportunities for Cochrane.

"It's very exciting to see the advancement of this community that I think this is going to bring commercial, retail, and employment land to south Cochrane. There's going to be a variety of housing options and three school spaces within this place. There are some great open spaces and pathway connections."

"We're very excited to work with Qualico, who is a recognized and respected community builder within the Calgary region."