New Cochrane-area park is designed to bring people together for public music events, pop-up markets, and neighbourly chats.
Cochrane residents will see the heart of Greystone emerge when Jefferson Plaza takes shape later in 2025 with the opening of this 0.7-acre waterfront centrepiece.
The plaza is designed to bring people together for public music events, pop-up markets, and neighbourly chats.
Named in honour of the late Jeff Burns, a visionary who played a key role in shaping the Greystone community, Jefferson Plaza is a tribute to his belief in creating vibrant, connected neighbourhoods.
“This is more than just a park or a plaza—it’s a place where people will gather, connect, and create memories,” says Josh Hagen, Vice President of Development at Burnswest Properties Ltd., the developer of Greystone.
“Jefferson Plaza will be a hub of activity, with sidewalk cafes spilling onto the perimeter and bustling community events.”
Jefferson Plaza will feature a beautifully hardscaped surface, low-maintenance landscaping, and thoughtfully durable amenities like benches and shade pergolas.
A raised stage at the plaza’s eastern edge will be available for performances—the versatile space honours the plaza’s namesake, Jeff Burns, who passed away in 2021.
In his free time, Jeff Burns was an obsessed audiophile and talented musician. He understood how the dedicated spot for entertainment and performances would alter the mood in a public space.
He brought the idea to life in his role with Burnswest, the family business which owned and developed the land that is now Greystone.
“It’s not just about function; it’s about creating an atmosphere,” Hagen explains.
Greystone's Jefferson Plaza to draw community groups
Jefferson Plaza is designed to create a beautiful backdrop and common ground for the town’s diverse community, including the families that will call Greystone home, suburbanites, and long-time Cochrane residents.
Landscape architects designed the space for longevity and to support life, including its platform that will overlook views of a constructed pond. This is expected to draw an ecosystem of birds and see greenery and life flourish at its shores.
Meanwhile, the large outdoor space with paver stones and gathering areas is intended to bring a spot for business owners looking to engage with the community.
“It’s meant to be a space where you can do it all—whether you’re grabbing a coffee, browsing a pop-up market, or just enjoying the view of the pond,” says Hagen.
It’s also an ideal spot for parents to take a breather, for singles to plan a coffee date or for retirees to soak up vitamin D, meet neighbours or take a stroll. For local businesses, the plaza is a prime opportunity to connect with customers, with its proximity to shops and restaurants enhancing foot traffic crossing out of the new Calgary Coop opening in 2025.
Workers on a lunch break from the new employment area or out-of-town sports teams visiting the SLS Rec Centre can also enjoy the outdoor change of scenery.
Plaza Feature Meets Sustainability Goals
The plaza’s design focuses on durability and sustainability, with drought-resistant plantings that will thrive with the natural surroundings. For Cochrane’s residents, the plaza will be a year-round destination—welcoming summer farmers’ markets, winter holiday celebrations, and everything in between.
More Than a Plaza—A Community Hub
Jefferson Plaza is also a reflection of Greystone’s walkable, integrated design. Located near retail spaces and restaurants, it offers easy access for residents and visitors alike. Unlike “residential only” suburban developments, Greystone’s mixed uses encourage connection, interaction and visibility.
“This isn’t just a standalone plaza; it’s part of a bigger vision,” says Hagen. “The homes, shops, and pathways around it make it easy to get out of your house and into the community.”
Pathways will connect directly to Cochrane’s broader river pathway system, which is a well-used amenity for active families on the go and people looking for healthy entertainment.
A Glimpse Into the Future
Set to open in mid-summer, its location near Greystone’s new Main Street ensures that it will be at the center of activity, providing a focal point for both residents and visitors. With nearby development, including retail spaces and a proposed hotel, the plaza promises to be a catalyst for growth and community engagement.
“We’re really proud of what this space will bring to Cochrane,” Hagen says. “It’s designed to be a place where people feel connected—to each other, to the town, and to the possibilities of living in Greystone.”
For families in search of more time together, active residents looking for new spaces to explore, Jefferson Plaza is a destination that will anchor Greystone as the center of Cochrane’s “new downtown”
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