Calgary gets its first new cemetery in over 80 years

The first new cemetery in Calgary in over 80 years has opened in the city's southeast.

Prairie Sky Cemetery, located near Ralph Klein Park, is a 65.3-hectare site that has been under development for 12 years.

"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," the city said in a news release.

"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."

The last cemetery to open in Calgary was Queen's Park in the northwest in 1940. Prairie Sky brings the total number of cemeteries in Calgary to six.

"[All] of our city cemeteries offera distinct experience and are great spaces for Calgarians to visit for honouring and remembering loved ones," said Mayor Naheed Nenshi in the release.

"I know Prairie Sky will be another beautiful spot for people to reconnect, relax and reflect in nature."