The first residents have moved into Taza Park in the major Indigenous-led Taza development on Tsuut’ina Nation land just outside Calgary’s southwestern city limits.

The milestone signals a transition for the project — from planning and infrastructure construction to an emerging neighbourhood — within Taza, a 50-50 partnership between Tsuut’ina Nation and Canadian developer Canderel, said the partners. The broader Taza development spans about 1,200 acres and is among the largest Indigenous-led real estate developments in North America.

Part of that project, the 470-acre Taza Park community is planned to include more than 6,500 homes along with retail and commercial space, parks, wetlands and public gathering areas designed to reflect Tsuut’ina culture while welcoming residents from across the Calgary region. Thousands more residents are expected to move into the neighbourhood as additional phases are built.

“For generations, we have worked towards building economic opportunity on our Nation that respects our land, our people and our responsibilities to future generations,” said Ellery Starlight, Tsuut’ina Nation head chief. “This milestone marks the beginning of a neighbourhood where relationships can grow and community can thrive. We’re very proud of the progress we’ve made, and we remain focused on doing things the right way, with purpose, transparency, and lasting benefit for our Nation. Today, I am overwhelmed with pride to welcome the first residents to Taza Park in Tsuut’ina Nation.”

James Robertson, president of Taza Development, said the arrival of the first homeowners represents a key step for the project, reflecting “years of disciplined planning and execution shaped through partnership and shared commitment.”

“Seeing families receive their keys and moving into the community is the moment the Taza vision becomes real,” he said. “It marks the beginning of a community that will grow for generations, delivering long-term economic opportunity for Tsuut’ina Nation and meaningful benefits for residents as we continue to advance each phase.”

The first completed homes are part of Aurora at Taza Park, a collection of 46 contemporary row townhomes built by Homes by Avi, one of several builders working in the community alongside Brookfield Residential and Crystal Creek Homes.

“Welcoming our first homeowners to Taza Park is a landmark moment for Homes by Avi,” said Vered Amir, the company’s vice-president of brand leadership and community engagement. “We recognize the significance of Tsuu’tina Nation choosing to share their land and its vision for the future, and we are truly honoured to help bring that vision to life. Together, we are creating more than homes; we are shaping a vibrant community that will serve families for generations.”

Taza Park is being developed alongside major infrastructure and public-realm investments, including roadways, utilities and green spaces. Plans call for more than 50 acres of ponds, wetlands and parks, with access to nearby natural areas such as Weaselhead Flats and North Glenmore Park.

The Taza development ultimately will include three connected villages — Taza Park, Buffalo Run and The Crossing — linked by the Tsuut’ina Trail segment of Calgary’s Southwest Ring Road.