If you ask any new home buyer, many will prefer buying in an infill community. Mature neighbourhoods closer to the downtown that have all the advantages – tons of amenities, better commute times to work or school, lots of entertainment opportunities nearby, and more. So, who can blame them?

For one thing, infill communities are usually out of the price range for many new homebuyers today. Land costs anywhere in or near downtown cannot compete with those available in the suburbs. But in Edmonton today, there are a couple of new opportunities that are able to blend the unique charm of infill communities with the relative affordability of the suburbs.

The massive, contemporary developments of Village at Griesbach and Blatchford are considered a form of the traditional infill community, as they are repurposed land located close to the downtown, but offer more affordable new home opportunities similar to those found in the suburbs. The Village at Griesbach is being developed by the Canada Lands Corporation, while Blatchford is an undertaking of the City of Edmonton.

They may not be the traditional infill community the way some people think, but the repurposing of the land - the former used to be a military base and the latter was the city’s first airport – follow the tenets of sustainability and Edmonton’s vision for a revitalized urban core.

Blatchford

Blatchford is redefining what a neighbourhood can be in Edmonton – where thoughtful design, modern homes, and lively public spaces come together to create a community unlike any other. With major progress in 2025 and even bigger milestones ahead, Blatchford is emerging as a standout option for homebuyers who want sustainable, future-forward living right in the heart of the city. And as the past year has shown, the momentum behind this community is only getting stronger.

Blatchford’s transformation reached an exciting point in 2025. “We’re closing out the year with about 57 per cent of the site’s developable land either constructed, under construction, or in planning and development,” says Tom Lumsden, Blatchford Development Manager. For context, the site spans 536 acres – making it one of the largest sustainable urban redevelopment projects in Canada. Even more impressive: that 57 per cent is an increase from approximately 42 per cent last year, with growth partly due to development work on a new 19-acre stage that will bring nearly 200 townhomes and new park space to the community.

Today, nearly 400 homes are completed or under construction, and the growing neighbourhood is feeling like the walkable, connected community it was designed to become. Blatchford has evolved quite extensively over the last several years – and if you haven’t visited the community lately, the transformation is truly impressive. Streets are filling in, parks are taking shape, and every new stage adds another layer to the community’s character. For buyers, it means real choice and a clear vision: thoughtfully designed homes surrounded by amenities, greenspace, and transit access.

In 2026, that vision is expanding even further. Construction is underway on Blatchford’s second linear park, building on the success of Littlewood Park – home to the now-iconic Tomato Playground, community garden, warming hut, and winter skating rink.

On the residential side, Blatchford will introduce new builders and new home options in 2026. With prices currently starting in the mid-$300s, buyers can choose from a variety of townhome styles, including larger models with rental suites, starter townhomes and townhouse bungalows with direct pond views. The first apartment-style buildings – complete with ground-floor retail – are also set to begin construction next year, adding density and convenience to the growing urban core.

Blatchford’s competitive edge remains clear: purposeful design that benefits people and the planet. Because the City of Edmonton is the land developer, the community can be shaped around long-term value rather than short-term trends. To learn more visit blatchfordedmonton.ca

Village at Griesbach

The Village at Griesbach has always stood out in Edmonton’s landscape – it’s a place where storied history, urban convenience, and natural spaces come together to create a community with unmistakable character. Its central location only strengthens that appeal. Close to major routes, transit, schools, and established north-side amenities, Griesbach makes day-to-day life easy and convenient. And with a growing mix of exceptional shops, services, and dining options within the community, residents enjoy the comfort of having everyday needs just minutes from home.

At the heart of Griesbach is a deep sense of connection – something that is woven into the very fabric of the community – which has continued to guide its evolution throughout 2025. The year brought meaningful progress to the community, especially in making the neighbourhood even more welcoming. Griesbach celebrated two new major affordable housing projects officially opening their doors, adding thoughtful, well-designed homes that support long-term stability for residents.

In February 2025, the Métis Capital Housing Corporation, part of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, opened Cecile Bellrose Manor, a fully affordable development offering 127 homes. Then in October, HomeEd introduced Parkside North, Canada’s first Zero Carbon townhouse development, adding 92 new units – nearly half of which are affordable.

As Griesbach looks ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be a noteworthy year. After years of planning and collaboration with residents and the City of Edmonton, Canada Lands Company is set to begin work on the Northeast Corner, which features nearly 160 acres and is the much-anticipated final chapter of the community’s master plan. Construction begins in summer 2026, guided by a commitment to maintaining the distinguished architectural quality that defines Griesbach while also honouring the Canadian Forces members who lived and served on this land beginning in 1950.

This new phase includes a national milestone as well. Griesbach has been selected as one of the first six Build Canada Homes sites in the country, bringing 355 new homes – a mix of townhomes and apartments – with 60% designated as affordable. It’s a significant moment that reinforces Griesbach’s role as a leader in thoughtful, inclusive community development.

To explore homes, amenities, and upcoming developments in Village at Griesbach, visit villageatgriesbach.com