A residential neighbourhood set up to house High River residents displaced by the flooding is steadily growing.
Up to 60 families have moved into Saddlebrook and there are now over 400 people living in the community.
“This is a positive step forward for these families who have been out of their homes for so long. Moving into the Saddlebrook neighbourhood will give them some stability and a sense of community while they rebuild their homes and make decisions about the future,” said Rick Fraser, Associate Minister of Regional Recovery and Reconstruction.
Family units have two beds (or a double bed, bunk bend, or built-in crib, depending on family needs). They also have a private washroom and shower, furnace, hot water tank, storage area, desk, and a television.
Meals are available at three different restaurants. Residents also have access to recreation and playground areas and well as housekeeping and onsite medical support.
The neighbourhood will reach capacity of 1,200 residents when complete.
Residents who move into Saddlebrook will be able to live there rent-free for 90 days so they have time to make alternate arrangements.
Saddlebrook is the first temporary neighbourhood to open.
Temporary housing is also open in the Siksika First Nation until a temporary neighbourhood can be built there.
The province is also considering temporary neighbourhoods near the M.D. of Bighorn, Calgary, and the Stoney Nakoda First Nation.
If they have not already done so, Albertans unable to return home due to the floods are invited to register their housing needs by calling 310-4455 Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Those with immediate emergency housing needs are asked to call 1-855-266-1605.
