This spring promises to bring changes to both Calgary's natural and built landscapes, as two new developments from Qualico Communities sprout up in some of the most desirable areas of the city.

Together Ambleton in the northwest and Alpine Park (temporary name) in the southwest will see 6,500 to 7,200 new residents and are at various stages of planning and construction approvals, says Clark Piechotta, Qualico's associate director of development.

Southwest ring road is poised to usher in new era of growth in Calgary's south end

It's been a long time coming, but the southwest section of Calgary's ring road is finally being built, and the city's developer community is among those most thrilled to see construction going ahead.

"It's really going to open up growth in the area, and provide not just opportunities for new communities, but also existing ones," said Steve LePan, director of sales and marketing with Anthem United.

"We're certainly happy to see it moving forward, because it would have had a negative impact (on our development in the area) if it had not been approved."

Full steam ahead for new communities in Calgary

Calgary's residential development sector continues to move dirt, lay down infrastructure and create lots as it responds to current consumer interest and prepares for the inevitable economic turnaround.

Within the city limits are several active new-home communities that continue toward buildout or are adding phases.

"Despite Alberta's current economic challenges, there is still a demand for the homes we build in Calgary and Edmonton," said Jason Palacsko, vice-president of Calgary communities for Brookfield Residential. "We are confident in Calgary's future and are moving forward with major projects."

Now that the southwest ring road is a go, the long-awaited community of Providence south of Tsuu T'ina Nation is finally beginning to take shape.

In May, the federal government approved a land-swap deal with the nation that transferred land designated for the roadway to the province.

And in July, both Tsuu T'ina and the Alberta government vowed to have the throughway completed within the next seven years.

All this means City of Calgary officials have had to dust off the area structure plan (ASP) for the adjacent land.

An information session is being held tonight for Providence, an area in the city's southwest where new communities are being planned.

Providence is located at the future intersection of the Southwest Ring Road and 146 Ave. S.W. The area encompasses 789-hectares of undeveloped agriculture land with plans for residential, retail and other employment uses.