Edmonton, AB – Downtown Edmonton’s Station Lands is bustling with activity as construction crews prepare for a busy spring season. This multi-phased project, which links Edmonton’s Ice District to the Arts District, The Quarters, the Civic Precinct, and Chinatown, reached a significant milestone earlier this year when Qualico Properties achieved substantial performance on The Switch, Station Lands’ inaugural mixed-use apartment mid-rise designed to revitalize the city’s core with increased density and vibrancy.

Built on the site of an abandoned CN railyard on prime downtown land just steps from Rogers Place, the Art Gallery of Alberta, and the Royal Alberta Museum, the Station Lands development has the potential to see a series of new residential and commercial buildings rise in the coming years, alongside a dynamic pedestrian-oriented public plaza.

A new ‘roundhouse park’ space – a key component of the plaza – is set to open this August, bounded by an elevated trestle bridge, EPCOR Tower, The Switch, and future mixed commercial and residential high-rise buildings.

“Station Lands is a key part of Edmonton’s revitalization, transforming underutilized land into a vibrant mixed-use community,” said Mike Saunders, Senior Vice-President, Qualico Properties. “The project aligns with the city’s goal of increasing downtown density, walkability, and economic activity by integrating high-quality residential, commercial, and public spaces.”

“Sustainability is a core focus, with initiatives such as energy-efficient building design, green approved programs, and integrated public transit access to reduce environmental impact,” said Mike, adding that plans are also in the works to tie Station Lands into the City of Edmonton’s District Energy Strategy.

The rise of Station Lands Plaza

Currently under construction, the new plaza will feature green spaces, a performance stage, a pollinator park, and connectivity to active transportation corridors. The area aims to be a major downtown destination, offering opportunities to enjoy outdoor performances, socialize with friends, and access local retail. The plaza’s pedestrian and cyclist routes and proximity to LRT lines will stimulate connectivity to surrounding districts.

Ulf Hilmar-Hahn, Vice-President of Development, Northern Alberta and BC, Qualico Properties, says the new elevated pedestrian bridge will add a unique feature to downtown Edmonton.

“The bridge creates a visual point of interest from afar, while providing a walking path and destination that will frame the south end of the public amenity space,” said Ulf.

The midpoint of the bridge can also be used as a stage for outdoor performances, surrounded by the new roundhouse park space that can support up to 2,000 visitors.

Qualico Properties believes the plaza will play a critical role in Edmonton’s downtown revitalization efforts.

“It creates an active central gathering space that will enhance the downtown experience,” said Mike.

In addition to opening the new park space this summer, Qualico Properties is also working on a new plaza programming strategy in tandem with nearby businesses, artists, and the City of Edmonton to bring a wide variety of programming to the area each week.

“This includes seasonal activations, local artisan markets, live performances, fitness classes, and cultural events that align with Edmonton’s character,” Mike said. “The goal is to create an inclusive and engaging space that encourages people to return regularly outside of the daily visitors who work and live downtown.”

The Switch now leasing

The first of several mixed-use mid-rise and high-rise buildings at Staton Lands, The Switch is already proving to be popular for people looking to live and work downtown, with the first tenants welcomed into the building in summer 2024.

“We’re pleased that our leasing velocity is on track with our projections, having recently crossed the 50% leased mark,” said Jeff Sutherland, Vice-President, National Leasing and Sales, Qualico Properties.

“We are also negotiating with several prospective commercial tenants looking to take advantage of the increased density and activity coming to the area,” said Jeff.

Featuring 285 stylish 1 to 3-bedroom rental units in the mid-rise and podium, The Switch boasts stunning views of downtown and an unmatched mix of modern amenities including a rooftop terrace, pet park, conference centre, theatre, Nordic themed fitness centre, retail spaces, and so much more.

In recognition of its innovative design features, The Switch was recently recognized with the Best New Multi-Family Rental Project Award at the 2025 BILD Edmonton Metro Awards of Excellence.

What’s Coming Next at Station Lands

Following ongoing planning with the City of Edmonton, The Switch will soon be connected to Churchill Station via a new pedway, providing climate-controlled connectivity to the balance of Edmonton’s extensive pedway network.

Construction for the new pedway is expected to be complete by Fall 2026.

Currently in the design stage, the next phase of development at Station Lands includes a new 37-storey high-rise tower at The Switch, with construction targeted to begin in 2026. The building will add another 407 residential units which are a combination of studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and spacious penthouse units, along with a rooftop residential amenity space.

“We’re excited about the momentum behind Station Lands and the role it plays in shaping downtown Edmonton’s future,” said Mike.

“As we move forward, we remain committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable community that enhances the city’s landscape, and fulfills our mission to Help Build Better Cities.”