Parade of Homes

>> For those who have yet to visit Sage Creek, or who may have seen it in its earliest stages of development, there are many unex- pected surprises in store. Today, the community is like a small town unto itself, with virtually every kind of amenity that homeowners could imagine either on hand or just ahead on the horizon. "This neighbourhood really has its own momentum," says Eric Vogan of Qualico Communities. Currently, more than 5,000 residents live in Sage Creek, which provides prospective home buyers with a wide range of housing and lifestyle options. Because of this, it continues to attract a broad spectrum of residents at every age and stage of life. Vogan says that within the community there is as much anticipa- tion leading up to announcements about new amenities as there is about the innovative homes being designed and built here. "From the get-go, we were looking to create a community where people are constantly guessing what's around the next corner, and that has really come to life in Sage Creek." In fact, many unique independent franchises, businesses and ser- vices are recognizing the potential and are launching new ventures in Sage Creek Village Centre, the main retail space in the community. Freshii is one such restaurant that's excited to be opening in the community this fall. "Coming from a small town myself, I'm excited to be a business own- er in such a tight-knit community where I can get to know everyone and provide them with the best service possible," explains Laura Mulvena, Freshii Franchise Owner. "We have a really well-rounded menu that will provide residents with delicious, easy to grab meals." "Prospective tenants see Sage Creek and say, 'Here's an opportunity to start a new business,' " says Jacob Weber, Senior Director, Develop- ment for Qualico Commercial, who is responsible for attracting and securing the ideal mix of commercial tenants for the community. Weber promises that in addition to Freshii, RockWood urban Grill and Marquis Dance Academy will soon join established ventures such as Sobeys, Tim Hor- tons, the recently opened Manitoba Liquor Mart and other popular businesses in Sage Creek — and there's more to come. Sage Creek is also proving to be highly attractive to growing families, so the neighbourhood is preparing to open up a dual-track English and French Im- mersion school, École Sage Creek School, in the fall of 2017. The new Rainbow Day nursery day care will also be attached to the k-8 school. Just across from the school, a new playground is in the works for both toddlers and children. The unique concept will split the park into two play zones con- nected by a shared sidewalk, featuring a "Junior Area" for kids aged five years and under, and a "Senior Area" for those aged six to twelve. "What's great about this playground is that the Sage Creek Residents' Associa- tion surveyed the community and designed it entirely based on their ideas and feedback," Vogan says. "It's amazing to see how the residents here have such a strong voice in shaping their community." Grown-ups in Sage Creek also have plenty of encouragement to stay active by taking advantage of the many trails that run throughout the area. "The trails here are intimate," says Vogan. "The twist is that when you're on them you feel like you're away from Winnipeg, and I think that's the purpose of them; to es- cape the pavement." "It's all so comfortable and inviting," says Debra Mosher, with Rancho Realty. "no matter your age, culture or budget, Sage Creek is a great fit for everyone." More Just Around the Corner, in sAge Creek By Kik Innovation for Qualico Communities 142 Parade of Homes fAll 2015

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