The Town of Carstairs recently published a comprehensive Housing Needs Assessment, providing a detailed look at the town's current housing market, population growth, and local economic factors impacting housing availability.
According to the assessment, Carstairs has experienced rapid population growth, with a 109 per cent increase from 2001 to 2021. This growth has led to increased demand for housing, primarily single-family homes. It has also highlighted the need for a more diverse housing stock to support residents of varying ages and economic situations.
Key findings on population and housing
Carstairs' population increase is primarily due to families seeking affordable living options near Calgary, a trend projected to continue. The assessment reveals that the town's population, which includes many young families and residents under 20, could double by 2051 if growth trends persist.
However, there is an emerging need for housing diversity. The current housing market in Carstairs heavily favours single-family homes, limiting options for other demographics, including seniors, young adults, and lower-income households. Without expanded options, residents needing more affordable or alternative housing may need to move to other communities.
Senior housing needs and affordable options
While Carstairs' overall demographic is younger, the senior population continues to grow. However, the town currently has limited options for senior-oriented housing, with most available through Mountain View Seniors’ Housing, which offers a limited number of affordable and supportive units. The assessment warns that older residents may be forced to leave Carstairs to find suitable accommodations without additional senior-friendly housing options.
Affordability is a critical issue for many residents. The report shows that 16.2 per cent of homeowners and 40.5 per cent of renters spend over 30 per cent of their income on housing, making it challenging for lower-income households and service industry workers to afford to live in the community where they work—rising housing costs and limited rental availability pressure many local families.
Economic and employment considerations
A significant portion of Carstairs' workforce commutes to other cities, contributing to its "bedroom community" status and limiting local economic development. Nearly 70% of Carstairs residents commute outside the town for work, leading to a lower commercial tax base and creating challenges for local businesses in attracting and retaining employees.
The assessment suggests diversifying housing options could help attract more businesses and employees. A more extensive selection of rental properties and affordable housing could encourage more residents to work within Carstairs and support local businesses, helping balance the town’s tax base between residential and commercial sources.
Future development and strategic recommendations
To address these challenges, the assessment proposes several strategies for Carstairs to consider:
- Increase housing diversity: Policies could be adjusted to encourage developers to include a broader range of housing types, such as multi-family and rental units, to meet the needs of residents across different age groups and income levels.
- Enhance senior housing: The town could work with Mountain View Seniors’ Housing to advocate for more senior-oriented housing options that allow seniors to age in place within the community.
- Align economic development with housing: Integrating economic development with housing initiatives could help retain local businesses and attract new ones by ensuring the availability of affordable housing for employees.
- Focus on infill and redevelopment: Encouraging infill development in existing neighbourhoods can help accommodate growth while utilizing existing infrastructure, potentially saving on costs and preserving the character of older neighbourhoods.
- Evaluate fiscal productivity: It is essential to ensure that new development supports the town’s long-term fiscal health. Strategies that maximize the productive use of land can help Carstairs generate revenue without compromising local services and infrastructure.
The Housing Needs Assessment underscores the need for a balanced approach to Carstairs' growth, emphasizing diversifying housing options and aligning economic development to foster a sustainable and inclusive community.
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