Development in the East Village will rise from the ground this year, according to officials. 

Up until this point, the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation ‘ a wholly owned subsidiary of the City of Calgary ‘ has been developing the community at the surface level, showcasing things like the River Walk and the 4th Street Underpass.

CMLC president and CEO Michael Brown said this year, they will begin to build upwards, with two new condo developments slated to begin construction this summer.

“This is the year we grow up,” said Brown.

While the sales centre in the East Village isn’t expected to open until spring, Brown said they’ve already received an overwhelming amount of interest.

He said more than 7,000 people have signed up to receive notification of when the sales centre opens.

In addition to residential space, Brown said they are exploring what kind of retail shops will be incorporated into the neighbourhood.

“We want residents here but we almost want this to become like Calgary’s playground.”

Brown said a decision will be made in the next two months as to the fate of Calgary’s historic Simmons building, but hinted the 17,394 square foot building will most likely involve multiple retailers.

The first new residents of the East Village are expected to move in January 2014.