Juniper Ridge is finally getting its second road (and what that means for your home value)

If you have lived in Kamloops for a while, you know the conversation around Juniper Ridge. It is one of the nicest spots in the city with incredible views and great trails. But whenever I show a home up there, the same concern comes up.

Clients love the house, but they worry about there being only one way in and one way out.

It is a fair point. The fires in 2021 made everyone nervous, and for good reason. For the last few years, that access issue has been a real friction point for buyers. It has kept some people from moving there who otherwise would have loved it.

I am writing this because that problem is finally being fixed.

You might have seen the equipment moving already. The extension of Qu’Appelle Boulevard is officially under construction. This isn't just a proposal anymore. The City has started the work to connect the west end of Qu’Appelle all the way through to Rose Hill Road.

This is going to be a proper road. It is a 1.1-kilometer paved extension with streetlights and two full lanes. They are also putting in a multi-use path for walking and cycling, so it connects the neighbourhood to the valley in a new way. (https://www.kamloops.ca/our-community/news-events/news-releases/city-progressing-quappelle-extension-enhance-safety)

Why this matters for your property value

Real estate is usually about adding things. You add a new kitchen or a garage to create value. But in this case, the value comes from taking something away.

This road takes away the worry.

When you remove the biggest objection buyers have about a neighbourhood, the dynamic changes. Families who were hesitant about safety can now look at Juniper with fresh eyes. I expect this will increase demand for homes in the area over the next 12 to 24 months as the road nears completion in 2027.

New opportunities are opening up

The road is also unlocking new inventory. It is being built in partnership with Juniper West Developments, which allows them to move forward with their next phases. We are watching for Galore West to launch this spring. It will bring some much-needed new single-family lots to the market.

If you are thinking of buying in Juniper, getting in before the road opens might be a smart move. If you are selling, you now have a very strong answer when a buyer asks about safety.

I have been helping people buy and sell in Juniper for years, and I am happy to see this finally moving forward. It is good for the residents and good for the city.

If you want to chat about what this timeline means for your own plans, give me a call, real estate is what I do!