The City of Calgary has officially opened Prairie Sky Cemetery, the city’s first new cemetery since Queen’s Park in 1940, near Ralph Klein Park.
The 65.3-hectare cemetery, which has been under development since 2009, was designed with input from Calgarians and reflects the wide range of choice desired by citizens. The cemetery features a variety of in-ground and cremation options, including an estate section, columbariums for cremations, and is the first and only cemetery in Calgary to offer families earth-friendly, green burial options. Some amenities such as a gathering or chapel space for family services or receptions and an onsite administration office are still to come and will be added over the next few years.
“I’m really pleased to be part of opening our city’s first new cemetery in more than 80 years,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi. “Each of our city cemeteries offer a distinct experience and are great spaces for Calgarians to visit for honoring and remembering loved ones. I know Prairie Sky will be another beautiful spot for people to reconnect, relax and reflect in nature.”
One of the cemetery’s most unique features is the green burial section which gives earth-conscious citizens a more ecological and sustainable choice. Green burials ensure a legacy of protecting the land where those who passed are laid to rest. The cemetery has been officially certified by the Green Burial Society of Canada.
“It is an honour and great responsibility to be entrusted with the eternal care of our citizens,” said Ward 12 Counsellor Shane Keating. “Therefore, it’s important that we offer a range of final rest options to suit the needs and desires of all Calgarians. Prairie Sky’s green burial section, along with the many other amenities available, allow citizens and their families to choose a place of rest that’s right for them.”
Prairie Sky joins the city’s five other cemeteries, all of which have been deemed historically significant cultural landscapes by the Calgary Heritage Authority.
“The City of Calgary cemeteries has a long and rich history serving Calgarians,” said Kyle Ripley, director, Calgary Parks. “From early founders, to Chinese pioneers, war veterans and more, every citizen in our cemeteries has a story and each cemetery provides important and unique reminders of our past, present and future.”
