Airdrie residents move to block housing project

Plans for an affordable housing project in Airdrie, Alta., are running into opposition from the surrounding community.

Habitat for Humanity wants to build a townhouses and condominium complex on an empty lot next to Monklands Soccer Park. The one-hectare, city-owned lot has been empty for 19 years.

However, more than 600 people have signed an online petition to block the project.

Andrew MacLachan, president and CEO of Habitat for Humanity Calgary, said people often think the new homeowners will be unemployed or bring problems into the neighbourhood.

"The reality is that the Habitat for Humanity families that we represent are working families," he said.

"You have to have a job. You have to be able to demonstrate that you can hold a job to be able to apply and be selected for a Habitat for Humanity home."

Airdrie Mayor Linda Bruce said some people have raised concerns about losing green space if construction goes ahead.

"And this area is not a dedicated green space. It's not irrigated, it is not maintained. It is mostly used as overflow parking, so it's not a playing field, it's not the loss of a green space," Bruce said.

City council will decide on Monday whether to rezone the space for residential construction.

Airdrie is about 30 kilometres north of Calgary.