In a milestone moment for Regina’s urban expansion, ground has officially broken on the ambitious Coopertown neighbourhood development, set to eventually house up to 35,000 residents in the city’s northwest quadrant. The first phase of construction began Tuesday, marking the start of what developers promise will transform approximately 690 hectares of land into a thriving mixed-use community.
“This is a significant day for Regina’s future,” said Jason Carlston, Dream Development’s vice president of land development. “After nearly two decades of planning and preparation, we’re finally putting shovels in the ground to create what will become home to thousands of families and countless new businesses.”
The project’s initial phase focuses on a 65-hectare parcel that will include approximately 700 housing units, ranging from single-family homes to multi-family dwellings. This diversity of housing options aims to address Regina’s growing population needs while creating an inclusive community accessible to various income levels.
Regina Mayor Sandra Masters highlighted the development’s importance during the groundbreaking ceremony, emphasizing how Coopertown aligns with the city’s growth strategies. “This development represents our vision for sustainable, forward-thinking urban planning,” Masters noted. “It’s about creating complete neighbourhoods where people can live, work, and access essential services without lengthy commutes.”
According to CO24 Canada News, the Coopertown project comes at a critical time for Regina’s housing market, which has experienced significant pressure in recent years. The Saskatchewan capital has seen steady population growth, creating demand for new housing developments that incorporate modern urban planning principles.
What sets Coopertown apart from traditional developments is its comprehensive approach to community building. Plans include dedicated commercial districts, educational facilities, recreational spaces, and integrated transportation networks. Environmental considerations have also been central to the planning process, with green spaces and sustainable infrastructure woven throughout the design.
“We’re not just building houses; we’re creating a community with longevity in mind,” explained Carlston. “The commercial areas alone are projected to create thousands of jobs, contributing significantly to Regina’s economic vitality.”
The development timeline spans multiple decades, with full build-out expected to take 25-30 years. However, residents won’t have to wait long to see progress, as the first homes are anticipated to be ready for occupancy by late 2025, according to information shared with CO24 Business.
City officials note that substantial infrastructure investments are accompanying the development, including major roadway improvements, utility extensions, and public transportation enhancements. These investments aim to ensure Coopertown integrates seamlessly with existing Regina neighbourhoods while providing the foundation for future growth.
Community reaction has been largely positive, though some residents have expressed concerns about the potential strain on existing city resources and services. In response, developers have emphasized their commitment to phased growth that allows municipal services to expand proportionally with the population.
As Regina continues evolving into a major prairie urban center, developments like Coopertown raise important questions about the future of city planning: How will these master-planned communities shape not just where we live, but how we live, work, and interact in the decades to come?
