Some Rocky Mountain House residents have raised concerns about housing density in the proposed Riverview development.

The north-end neighbourhood plan calls for a mix of housing, including single-detached, semi-detached and multi-family homes.

Several respondents said those housing types could lower the property values of existing estate homes in Phase 1 off 60 Street.

The concerns were outlined in a What We Heard report summarizing responses from a spring public survey and a May 26 open house at the Rocky Recreation Centre attended by 31 residents.

Council reviewed the report at its July 21 meeting.

Opinions were mixed. Some residents said only single-detached homes should be permitted, while others said multi-family housing is needed in town — just not in Riverview.

Others said they supported some housing diversity but wanted fewer semi-detached and multi-unit homes. Some also expressed concerns that concentrating higher-density housing on one street could create parking shortages.

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Still, other residents supported a greater mix of housing, saying the town needs more homes. One respondent also said the development would contribute to the municipal tax base.

Desire for green space

A common theme in the report was the desire for additional parks and open space.

Participants said they were pleased existing trails would be maintained and that new trails are planned.

A proposed playground, or tot lot, also received generally positive feedback, although some residents said they would like to see more park space.

Tree preservation was another recurring theme, with one participant hoping trees surrounding the storm pond would be maintained.

Other respondents called on the town to incorporate FireSmart principles into the Riverview development because of its location along the wildland-urban interface.

Decision expected in 2026

Feedback collected through the What We Heard report will be used to finalize the Riverview Outline Plan. Council is expected to decide on a final draft by fall 2026.

The Riverview Outline Plan covers land on the town’s north end. Its boundaries are Highway 11 to the east, the town boundary to the north, the North Saskatchewan River to the west and existing development to the south.