TELUS – the second largest wireless carrier in Canada – has announced plans to develop yet another LEED Platinum and Gold building in Canada. The ‘TELUS Sky” will be erected in Calgary, Alberta by fall of 2017 and will encompass the entire 7th Avenue block in the downtown core. The $400-million, 750,000 square foot tower, aims to be the “most technologically innovative and environmentally-friendly sites in North America.”
The 58-storey TELUS Sky will be a mixed-use tower that will incorporate office, retail and residential space. 430,000 square feet is office space, TELUS will occupy 155,000 square feet, but the rest will be for retail and 341 residential units. TELUS will also bring to life a unique 5,500 square feet public gallery that will feature local artists to “that reflect the region’s cultural diversity and creativity.”
The company says that the building will be “most significant next-generation property in Calgary’s history” and feature a storm water management system to recycle rain water for washroom toilets and outdoor irrigation, which will reduce water use by millions of litres per year (approximately 35% less energy than similar size developments)
“Our new development is a powerful contribution to Calgary’s economic strength, culture and social vitality. Notably, TELUS Sky will inject millions of dollars into the community and create hundreds of local jobs while showcasing TELUS’ advanced communications technologies and environmental innovation in a way never before seen in Calgary,” said Darren Entwistle, TELUS President and CEO. “Moreover, TELUS Sky will enrich the city’s vibrant arts culture by offering inspiring public spaces that will exhibit works of art by local artists, thus creating a truly amazing destination for our team members, the community and indeed all Albertans.”