Across Calgary, The City’s community partners including more than 160 community associations, are celebrating milestone anniversaries while volunteers turn local ideas into welcoming events, useful amenities and new ways for neighbours to connect.  

So far this year, some notable anniversaries include the Sandstone MacEwan Community Association marking 40 years, the Brentwood Community Association celebrating 50 years, the North Haven Community Association celebrating 60, the Triwood Community Association marking 65 years and the Rosedale Community Association reaching their 75^th anniversary. These community association milestones, which are only a few, reflect decades of community residents giving their time, ideas and care to strengthen Calgary’s communities.  

This year’s celebrations are part of the larger story of partnership with Calgary’s community associations, including the Kincora Community Association’s work on a new playground to create another space for families to gather. The Symons Valley Leisure and Amenities Society submitted a development permit for the first stage of a community sport and recreation hub, the Coach Hill Patterson Heights Community Association broke ground on a community space, while the Hidden Valley Community Association's member discount program is building connections between residents and local businesses.  

“We partner with Calgary community associations to make life better for all Calgarians. This close partnership allows us to work together to create and sustain vibrant and healthy communities across the city,” said Tim Mowrey, Manager, Community Partners for The City.  “We encourage all Calgarians to attend events, become members of their community association, volunteer or serve on your community association Board.” 

Community association events are also bringing neighbourhoods together in creative ways, including the West Springs and Capitol Hill Community Association's hosting successful Neighbour Day activities in June, the Mahogany Community Association hosting a community screening event for the new Toy Story movie in July and the Rutland Park Community Association receiving the Inspiring Neighbourhood Grant funding for two sea can storage containers to be painted with beautiful murals. In the community of Redstone, the community association ‘s third annual Stampede Breakfast drew an amazing crowd of 7,000 people, with Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith both attending. The Elbow Park Community Association replaced a vandalized and broken sundial in the Gerry Shaw Garden, the Montgomery Community Association welcomed families to its Great Big Family Picnic in August, while the Sage Hill Community Association invited residents to their community duck hunt in April and the Ranchlands Community Association held a ‘Dog Mayor’ contest with Shiba Inu Kero announced as the winner last month.   

Calgary’s community associations represent more than 250 communities. The Federation of Calgary Communities is also a partner of The City in supporting community associations as they work to offer social, recreational, and educational opportunities close to home, take care of gathering spaces and buildings, and help Calgarians have a voice in community life. More than 16,000 volunteers support Calgary’s community associations with thousands of hours each year. 

Learn more about Calgary’s community associations.  

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As a precaution, Alberta Health Services ordered a Boil Water Advisory. This issue is not related to the Bearspaw South Feeder Main, nor is it impacting Rockyview General Hospital. 

To complete repairs, two northbound and two southbound lanes on 14th Street S.W. between 75 Avenue S.W. and Heritage Drive. S.W. will be closed until further notice, leaving one lane open in each direction. Depending on the condition of the pipe we may need to adjust the lane closures to complete the repair. This is a challenging repair and will take some time to complete.  Significant traffic delays are likely. Please use alternative routes if possible and follow all signage and detours. 

All residents within the affected area are advised to bring all tap water to a rolling boil for one full minute prior to any consumption, including: 

• Drinking, including coffee and tea 
• Cooking 
• Brushing teeth 
• Cleaning raw foods 
• Preparing infant formula or juices 
• Making ice, etc. 

 In-home water filters are not sufficient and water in them must still be boiled before use. 

You may instead choose to purchase bottled water for consumption for the duration of this advisory. Water wagons are being provided, and their location will be available on calgary.ca/boilwater. 

When cleaning: 

If you are not using a dishwasher, water used for cleaning surfaces or dishes should be boiled. 

Water used for bathing and laundry does not require boiling. 

For businesses: 

Food Service Establishments, Care Providers and Personal Service facilities should contact Environmental Public Health at 1-833-476-4743 for direction. 

This advisory will remain in effect until further notice. Affected residents will be contacted directly when the advisory is lifted and updates will be available on calgary.ca/boilwater.  

The City of Calgary is working closely with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas and Alberta Health Services to resolve the water quality concerns. 

For health-related questions and further information about boil water procedures, please contact Health Link at 811 or visit myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/Boil-water-advisory-how-to-use-water-safely.aspx  

On Friday, October 16, City crews began repairs on a water main that supports the community of Eagle Ridge and Heritage Park. During the repairs, they experienced an unanticipated depressurization of the pipe and cannot guarantee the water quality.

As a precaution, Alberta Health Services is ordering a Boil Water Advisory. This issue is not related to the Bearspaw South Feeder Main.

To complete repairs all southbound lanes on 14^th Street S.W. between 75 Avenue S.W. and Heritage Drive. S.W. will be closed until further notice. City crews will be working extended hours over the weekend to complete the repair and will restore a southbound lane as soon as possible.

All residents within the affected area are advised to bring all tap water to a rolling boil for one full minute prior to any consumption, including:

• Drinking, including coffee and tea
• Cooking
• Brushing teeth
• Cleaning raw foods
• Preparing infant formula or juices
• Making ice, etc.

In-home water filters are not sufficient and water in them must still be boiled before use.

You may instead choose to purchase bottled water for consumption for the duration of this advisory. Water wagons are being provided and their location will be available on calgary.ca/wateroutages.

When cleaning:

• If you are not using a dishwasher, water used for cleaning surfaces or dishes should be boiled.
• Water used for bathing and laundry does not require boiling.

For businesses:

Food Service Establishments, Care Providers and Personal Service facilities should contact Environmental Public Health at 1-833-476-4743 for direction.

This advisory will remain in effect until further notice. Updates will be available on calgary.ca/wateroutages.

The City of Calgary is working closely with Alberta Environment and Protected Areas and Alberta Health Services to resolve the water quality concerns.

For health-related questions and further information about boil water procedures, please contact Health Link at 811 or visit myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/Boil-water-advisory-how-to-use-water-safely.aspx

This connection marks one of the final steps of installation for the new feeder main. Once connected, crews will begin the final commissioning work required to bring the new pipe into service by the end of this year.

"The November connection is a significant phase of the project because it is when the new feeder main will be integrated into Calgary’s existing water system," said Michael Thompson, Chief Operating Officer - Water. "Over the past several months, our focus has been on advancing construction while securing the specialized materials needed to complete this work. With the majority of those materials now on-site in Calgary and the rest of the materials scheduled to arrive on time, we're positioned to move into this final phase and deliver on a key investment in Calgary’s water infrastructure that will help reduce the risk of future major disruptions."

Water restrictions required during connection work

To safely complete the connection of the new pipe, the existing Bearspaw South Feeder Main must be temporarily shut down. During this period, the amount of water that can be distributed across the city will be significantly reduced to 500 million litres a day. We need to stay below this number and ensure we have sufficient water for everyone, including firefighting, if needed.

As a result, city-wide Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions and indoor water conservation measures will be required beginning Nov. 4 for approximately four weeks.

No outdoor water use will be permitted during this time and we’re asking all Calgarians and our neighbours in Airdrie, Chestermere, Strathmore and Tsuut’ina Nation to save water indoors by taking the following actions:

• Run dishwashers and laundry only when full.
• Flush toilets only when needed.
• Take shorter showers. Aim for three minutes.

"We know Calgarians have already done a tremendous job reducing water use when needed," said Thompson. "The actions people take during this period will help us complete this work safely and successfully while protecting water services across the city.”

Once the new feeder main has been connected, crews will focus on preparing the new line for service. This includes disinfecting the pipe, filling it with water and completing the water quality testing required before the new feeder main can be brought into operation. This process will take approximately two to three weeks.

The project remains on track for the new feeder main to be fully operational by the end of the year.

A data-driven approach to reducing excessive vehicle noise is delivering results on one of Calgary's busiest corridors. Noise monitoring data collected during Operation Silent Night shows measurable improvements in sound levels and a reduction in loud vehicle activity along 17 Avenue S.W., an area identified as Calgary's highest-priority vehicle noise hot spot.

To evaluate the impact of the initiative, The City analyzed data from a noise monitor near Tomkins Park and compared results from the August 2026 enforcement period with the same period in 2025. The findings show a significant reduction in loud vehicle events and overall noise levels.

During enforcement hours, loud vehicle events decreased from 357 events in 2025 to 267 events in 2026, a reduction of 25.2 per cent. Across the full analysis period, loud vehicle events decreased from 801 to 715, a reduction of 10.7 per cent. Average sound levels during enforcement hours also fell from 71.18 dBA to 68.80 dBA, a decrease of 2.38 decibels.

“The results show that when drivers understand the rules and see a visible enforcement presence, we can make a meaningful difference in reducing excessive vehicle noise and improving the quality of life for residents and businesses,” said Brad Johnson, Inspector and head of the Traffic Safety Team.

The strongest reductions were observed during active enforcement periods, suggesting a positive impact from increased awareness and officer presence. While factors such as weather, traffic volumes and special events can influence sound levels, the monitoring data indicates a clear improvement during the operation period.

The results also highlight the value of Calgary's citywide noise-monitoring network. The monitors provide objective information about loud vehicle activity, helping The City identify noise hot spots, understand trends and evaluate the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving community livability.

Operation Silent Night demonstrates how data, technology and targeted enforcement can work together to reduce excessive vehicle noise and support quieter, more enjoyable public spaces for residents, businesses and visitors.

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The award recognizes a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) project led by The City of Calgary in partnership with DIALOG. The project examined 10 locations across downtown Calgary, exploring how design, community input and collaboration can help improve safety and the experience of people using public spaces. 

What set the project apart was its focus on implementation. Rather than producing recommendations alone, the team worked closely with businesses, community organizations, operational teams and subject matter experts to identify practical solutions that could be put into action. 

Several improvements are already underway or complete, including lighting enhancements, safety infrastructure and other measures designed to improve public spaces for residents, visitors and businesses. 

"This recognition reflects the incredible collaboration behind the project," said Darshan Tailor, Business Strategist with The City of Calgary. "Businesses, community organizations, City teams and technical experts all contributed their knowledge and experience. Together, we developed practical solutions that are helping create safer public spaces." 

Collaboration was central to the project's success. Interested parties from across sectors helped identify challenges, share local insights and shape recommendations that were both meaningful and achievable. This partnership-based approach ensured the project delivered practical outcomes rather than a stand-alone study. 

The recognition highlights the importance of investing in public spaces that support a vibrant downtown. Safer, more welcoming environments help encourage people to live, work, visit and spend time in the core, benefiting residents, businesses and the broader community. 

The project assessed 10 downtown locations and produced implementation-focused action plans designed to translate safety recommendations into tangible improvements on the ground. 

The APPI award recognizes planning excellence and innovation, celebrating projects that create positive impacts for communities across Canada. 

Things to do

Free ice skating on Thanksgiving Monday

Join us on Oct. 12 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. and 2:30 to 3:45 p.m. for free family skating at these locations:

• Shouldice Arena (1515 Home Rd. N.W.)
• Stu Peppard Arena (5300 19 St. S.W.)
• Murray CoPot Arena (6727 Centre St. N.W.)
• Rose Kohn/Jimmie Condon Arena (502 Heritage Dr. S.W.)

View our arena rules for public skates.Equipment rentals are not available.

Free swimming on Thanksgiving Monday

Join us from Oct. 12 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 3 to 4:30 p.m. for free family swimming at these locations:

• Glenmore Aquatic Centre (5330 19 St. S.W.)
• Thornhill Aquatic & Recreation Centre (6715 Centre St. N.W.) 

Due to the popularity of our free swims, we ask that you only attend one time slot. Pools may be cleared at 2:30p.m. to make room for new customers.

Weight rooms will also be open during these times.

Tee up at City golf courses
Driving ranges and golf courses are open; book your tee time at calgary.ca/golf.

Note: Oct. 12 is the final day to golf at McCall Par 3. Golf courses will be closed on Oct. 10 and 11, set to re-open Oct. 12. Due to below zero temperatures, all our golf courses will be closed on Saturday and Sunday. However, with weather forecasts continuing to change, please check calgary.ca/golfschedule for course status.

Getting around

Calgary Transit 
On Thanksgiving Monday, Oct. 12, Calgary Transit will be operating buses, CTrains and On Demand on a Sunday level of service. For more information on fares, schedules and Customer Service hours over the long weekend, visit calgarytransit.com.

Red Line closure: 
From Oct. 10 to 12, the Red Line will be closed between Chinook and Heritage stations in order to complete work on multiple projects. Shuttle buses will replace CTrain service between the two impacted stations. Full CTrain service is scheduled to resume at these stations by start of service on Tuesday, Oct. 13.  More information can be found at calgarytransit.com/CTrain-service.

Single tracking: 
The Blue Line will be running a single track only on parts of the West LRT starting Oct. 10 until the early morning of Oct. 12. This will impact 69 Street Station as well as 45 Street to Shaganappi Point Stations. Work will switch sides as required over the course of the weekend, customers are asked to please keep an eye on displays and listen for announcements to ensure they’re on the correct platform.

Calgary Parking
Enjoy free parking in on-street ParkPlus zones on Monday, Oct. 12. Weekend rates apply at all Calgary Parking parkades and surface lots. Please note that regular rates will be in effect at partner lots such as TELUS Spark, the Calgary Stampede, Calgary Zoo and Heritage Park.

The Calgary Parking Contact Centre and Impound Lot will be closed on Monday, Oct. 12. For more information, please visit Calgary Parking.

Road construction and traffic safety
The following road closures may affect travel. Calgarians are encouraged to visit calgary.ca/trafficinfo before travelling for a full list of current traffic incidents, road closures and detours.

Southwest

• 5 Avenue S.W. and 3 Street S.W. – multi-lane closures on 5 Avenue S.W. and a full road closure on 3 Street S.W. for ongoing ENMAX manhole rebuild work.
• 14 Street S.W. between 17 Avenue S.W. and 19 Avenue S.W. – two-way traffic is in place on the west side during ongoing work.
• 11 Street S.W. between 9 Ave and 10 Avenue S.W. – full road closure for CPKC railway repair.
• 8 Street S.W. project – northbound closure on 8 Street S.W. between 8 Avenue S.W. and 10 Avenue S.W. during ongoing project work.

Northwest

• 16 Avenue N.W. at Monterey Avenue N.W. – lane reversal with two eastbound lanes on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Southeast

• 6 Street S.E. underpass – lane closures on 9 Avenue S.E. between 5 Street S.E. and 8 Street S.E. for underpass project work.
• Ogden Road S.E. between Millican Road and 68 Street S.E. – full road closure for utility work for Green Line Project.
• Shawville Gate between Somervale Court S.W. & Shawville Link S.E. – full road closure for LRT track repairs.

Northeast

• 16 Avenue N.E. and Deerfoot Trail N.E. – ongoing closure at 16 Avenue N.E. and Deerfoot Trail N.E.
• Memorial Drive N.E. between 68 Street N.E. and Abbeydale Drive N.E. – multi-lane closures for project work.

Around the house

Landfill and Eco Centre hours
Landfill and Eco Centre hours and locations in Calgary are available on calgary.ca/landfill. 

Facility hours and closures
The following will be closed on Monday, Oct. 12 (except for the free swimming and skating opportunities listed under the ‘Things to do’ section above):

• All Arenas
• Indoor pools and fitness centres
• Maxwell Soccer Centre
• North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres
• Animal Services Centre 

Programs

• Registered programs and most swimming lessons will not run Oct. 12. Check your schedule at liveandplay.calgary.ca.
• Drop-in programs will not be offered on Oct. 12. Check calgary.ca/dropin for more information.

Keeping public washrooms open, accessible and tidy requires consistent monitoring. This is where the Parks & Open Spaces Washroom Attendant Program comes in. Washroom attendants fulfill a variety of tasks during their shifts including checking and cleaning washrooms between visitors, monitoring the space so that everyone has access to the washrooms (wellness checks after someone has been in the washroom for more than 15 minutes), de-escalating situations where necessary and calling for help if someone is in medical distress.

At the Devonian Gardens washrooms, attendants often see tourists who still have their suitcases with them. "We might be their first impression of Calgary," said Washroom Attendant Paul. "Tourists often think they need to pay to use our washrooms and we say, 'It's free,' they tell us that in Europe you have to pay for the toilet paper. They are often shocked that it's free AND clean." Parents with children are very appreciative that they can access a family washroom that is monitored. “They want to take their child to someplace clean," said Paul.

Paul is one of the many attendants that monitor and cares for the public washrooms in select downtown parks as an employee of Hiregood. “Hiregood is a social enterprise that creates meaningful, long-term employment for people who are too often overlooked in the traditional workforce,” said Jodi Phelan, Chief Executive Officer for Hiregood. “We provide real services for our customers while creating real jobs in the community. This program is a perfect example of what that can look like. Our attendants aren’t just keeping the washrooms clean. They are creating safer, more welcoming spaces for everyone who uses them.”

Taren Yellowbird said that working as an attendant can be humbling, has challenged her in ways she needed to be challenged and is also more of a personal vocation than just a job. After university and working for outreach organizations, she was looking for meaningful work and then found this position, calling it "the best decision ever" to move to Calgary and become a washroom attendant. "My sister died on the streets from a heart attack and my niece died two weeks ago from an overdose so this is very personal, doing this work helps me grieve,” said Taren. “My sister and my niece — no one found them in time; no one was there."

Attendants say a variety of individuals use the washrooms including the elderly, families, people who work downtown, those attending an event or have an appointment and plenty of tourists.

Part of the success of the program comes from creating a community of support within these parks that includes the Parks maintenance staff, security and the attendants. When they are all working together, it improves the park experience for everyone said Washroom Attendant Samuel Kairu. "People come by and say good things about having us here," said Samuel. "They remember a time when people didn't have access to a washroom here, when it was shut down. Now it is good, many people feel at peace here. We often have 70 people per shift, sometimes 100 people. During an event we had 450 during one shift!"

The attendants also build a rapport with people who frequent the park, providing information about helpful resources and acting as another set of eyes and ears to ensure the space is welcoming for everyone using it.

Washroom Attendant Channsey Sung was unhoused when she was younger and said she has a lot of empathy for the people who are in a similar situation now. " I worked hard to get out of that situation," said Channsey. "If you don't have a home, it's hard to get work. If people ask us, we will tell them about programs that can help them get off the street."

Attendants see folks using the washrooms before they take the CTrain home, while they are shopping and others are park regulars. "There are many people who come here on a regular basis to get ready for work or to get cleaned up before going to dinner; it's part of their routine," said Gilbert McComb, Washroom Attendant. "I believe we are showing that we care and that there is compassion for everyone. People need to take care of the necessities of life to be able to make changes and be a more productive part of society."

One washroom attendant, who asked to remain anonymous, said that the attendants create a community of people who care for each other in these parks. She shared one story about a young woman who visited the park often, who had two dogs and was living on the street. "She would come by and we would check in on her and the dogs, we got to know her and she got to know us. We would talk about where she wanted to go and what she wanted to do. She ended up calling her grandfather, cleaned herself up and now she is back working again. We help a lot of people who want to take the help, that's very satisfying!"

Visitor surveys provide feedback that guides the Washroom Attendant Program and helps measure its success. Survey feedback collected in 2025 and 2026 shows that 97% of visitors are likely to return due to positive experiences. Before the program was launched in 2023, public concerns about safety and cleanliness were common, and many facilities were often closed for extensive vandalism repairs. Thanks to this program, repairs have been reduced and washrooms at program locations are open every day. In previous years, some public washrooms were closed for 10 out of 12 months due to vandalism.

“Over 80 per cent of people who filled out our customer satisfaction survey for the program in 2025 said that the presence of an attendant made these washrooms feel safe and welcoming,” said Joy Norstrom, Parks Issues Strategist, adding that they collected 880 surveys during the first three quarters of 2025. “Parks are important public spaces, and we want them to be accessible, safe and peaceful places where everyone is welcome. The Washroom Attendant Program helps us achieve this in these downtown parks.”

Jodi said she is immensely proud of the Hiregood attendants who help create safer public spaces. “Public washrooms are something most of us don’t think about until we need one,” said Jodi. “Having access to a clean, safe washroom is a basic need, whether you’re a tourist, a family with children, someone working downtown or someone experiencing homelessness. Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity."

The $26-million athletic park features two multi-use, artificial turf fields, along with washrooms, parking, spectator seating and field lighting that extends playable hours and supports increased use throughout the season. Located next to Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge, the new City-operated park expands access to high-quality outdoor sport space for northwest Calgary and the wider community.

“Recreation spaces help build healthy communities and create opportunities for Calgarians to connect through sport,” said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “Rocky Ridge Athletic Park is an investment in Calgary’s growing northwest and in the public recreation system our city needs for the future. These new fields will give more kids, families and sport organizations access to quality spaces where they can play, compete and build lasting connections.”

The two new fields bring Calgary's athletic park network to 15 athletic parks with 31 soccer fields across the city, adding much-needed capacity and helping respond to growing demand for bookable field space. The additional capacity also gives The City greater flexibility to manage field use, support the recovery of natural grass fields and provide more playing opportunities.

“Quality fields are essential to giving youth the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence and experience the benefits of team sport,” said Bernie Morton, president of Calgary Minor Soccer Association. “These new fields will provide more opportunities for kids to practice and compete while helping meet the strong and growing demand for soccer space in Calgary. We appreciate The City’s investment and its continued work with sport organizations to strengthen recreation opportunities for Calgarians.”

The opening of Rocky Ridge Athletic Park demonstrates how investment in public recreation can add capacity and improve access as Calgary grows. The park forms part of The City’s broader work to renew aging recreation infrastructure, respond to increasing demand and provide recreation spaces that support health, quality of life and community connection.

Through GamePLAN, The City’s 25-year vision and strategic framework for public recreation, Calgary is taking a long-term, system-wide approach to renewing existing facilities, adding capacity and improving how Calgarians access recreation spaces and services. Council adopted GamePLAN and established Making Waves as the service level for public recreation facilities and amenities in 2025, which has a long-term goal of increasing bookable hours at fieldhouses and athletic parks by 2.5 times.

Rocky Ridge Athletic Park is part of the larger Rocky Ridge Athletic Complex. Design work for a future fieldhouse is underway, with construction dependent on future funding approval. As a Wave 1 GamePLAN priority, funding for fieldhouse construction will be considered through the 2027-30 Service Plans and Budgets process.

The fields can accommodate soccer and other field sports and are available to user groups through The City’s booking and process.

For booking information, visit the Rocky Ridge Athletic Park webpage.

Quick facts

• Council approved Rocky Ridge Athletic Park in 2021 as part of the Capital Investment Strategy.
• Construction began in September 2024 and was completed in 2026.
• The $26-million park includes two artificial turf, multi-use fields, along with washrooms, parking, spectator seating and field lighting that extends playable hours and supports increased use throughout the season.
• The new fields bring Calgary’s City-operated athletic park network to 15, with 31 soccer fields across the city.
• The park is located at 9700 Country Hills Blvd. N.W., adjacent to Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge.
• User groups can book the fields through The City’s booking and allocation process.

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Each year during Fire Prevention Week, the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) appoints a Junior Fire Chief to act as Calgary’s fire safety ambassador. This program has been running since 2016 in partnership with the Alberta Children’s Hospital. 

Kean’s duties will include promoting this year’s Fire Prevention Week theme, “Charge into Fire Safety - Safe Charging is a Superpower.” As part of Kean’s first day, he went for a ride in a fire engine and had lunch with firefighters and his family at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. 

“Our Junior Fire Chief plays an important role in helping to raise fire safety awareness for everyone, especially young people,” said Chief Dongworth. “Just like our Community Safety Team and the 1800 other firefighters in our service, the Junior Fire Chief helps to us communicate important fire safety messages with our family, friends and community.” 

“We’re honoured to continue this meaningful partnership with the Calgary Fire Department, recognizing a remarkable child whose courage and character embody the spirit of the Junior Fire Chief program.” said Stacy Kelly, Special Events Coordinator at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. “The program helps to promote important initiatives and our shared values around safety, teamwork and leadership.” 

Kean joins the Calgary Fire Department at a time when Calgary is seeing increasing fire risks from consumer and household devices due to lithium-ion battery fires. 

 “With more lithium-ion battery fires, residential fires, overdoses and other medical calls, Calgary Fire is expected to see its greatest-ever number of incidents in 2026,” said Chief Dongworth with a minimum projection of 94,000 incidents by end of year. We’re also seeing growth in emerging risks such as urban wildfire and fireworks usage.” 

Lithium-ion fires can be hard to extinguish and difficult to control. Batteries contain high amounts of stored energy which, once ignited, cause thermal runaway, leading to rapid overheating, explosions and toxic gases. 

Damaged batteries, overcharging, and improper use of batteries and chargers are common causes of fires. Use of off-brand or discounted high-capacity batteries is also highly associated with greater fire risk, as is modifying electronics in any way. 

Know how to charge & recycle safely  Calgarians are encouraged to: 

1. Buy and use safely: Purchase products from reputable vendors and look for a “UL” or “CSA” stamp on the product to ensure it meets safety standards. Don’t damage or modify your devices and their batteries. 

2. Charge safely: Do not overcharge devices; unplug them or remove the battery once fully charged. Do not charge under pillows, on beds or on couches where batteries can overheat. 

3. Recycle responsibly: Recycle your batteries at designated collection sites across Calgary. Find out more at calgary.ca/chargesafe. 

By responsibly recycling batteries, hazardous materials are kept out of the garbage and landfills. Recycling also allows for the recovery and reuse of valuable resources, which can be used in the manufacturing of new products, like stainless steel products or even new batteries. 

Find out more about how to safety manage and dispose of batteries, including free drop off locations across Calgary: calgary.ca/chargesafe. 

For more information about Fire Prevention Week, visit calgary.ca/firepreventionweek. 

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Fire Prevention Week – Fast Facts 

• 2026 is currently on track to see the most ever lithium-ion battery fires on record in Calgary, mostly caused by e-scooters, e-bikes and battery packs.
• While lithium-ion battery fires are not as frequent as structure fires, they doubled in Calgary between 2024 to 2025, from 10 to 21 incidents.
• With more lithium-ion battery fires, residential fires, overdoses and other medical calls, Calgary Fire is expected to see its greatest-ever number of incidents in 2026 with a minimum projection of 94,000 incidents by end of year. Previously, 92,923 incidents in 2023 represented the most calls for help in a single year for Calgary’s 141-year-old fire service. 
• Incident volumes have increased with Calgary’s continued population and geographic growth, from 61,064 incidents in 2020 to 92,248 in 2025 – a 51% increase. CFD is also seeing growth in emerging risks such as urban wildfire and fireworks usage.  

Community members, young athletes and Calgary Stampeders players got an early look at Fonda Park's new flag football fields at a community preview event on Saturday, Oct. 3.

The City of Calgary is delivering three new flag football fields at Fonda Park (1017 Fonda Ct. S.E.) in partnership with the Stampeders Foundation's 2026 Grey Cup Legacy Project. The fields respond to the rapid growth of flag and touch football in Calgary, a sport gaining popularity with youth and adults alike, while bringing more opportunities to participate closer to families in the surrounding communities.

"Fonda Park was selected because it already has the infrastructure, the transit access and parking needed to support increased recreational use," said Deputy Mayor Dan McLean. McLean noted that the project repurposes underused playfields, including an underused baseball diamond, while keeping valued community amenities like the skate slab and playground. Two of three fields are complete and will be open for booking starting April 2027, while the third field will begin construction next spring.

The event focused on what the fields are for: getting kids to play. Stampeders Jaylon Hutchings and Folarin Orimolade joined young athletes on the field for a try-it session open to all ages.

A permanent home for flag football

The fields bring organized flag football to an area of the city that hasn't had local access before.

"Most kids don't stop playing sports because they lose interest. They stop, or never start, because it's too expensive, too far away, or too hard to fit into family life”, said Logan Ruzycki, a coach with the YYC Flag Football League. "If you were a kid in this part of the city and wanted to play flag football, it usually meant a long drive."

Ruzycki noted that flag football needs little equipment, is low-contact, and lets boys and girls of all sizes and skill levels play together from day one. "But sport is only as accessible as the place you play it."

Better use of park space, more access to sport

The Fonda Park Playfield Enhancements project supports two of The City's long-term strategies for parks and recreation: GamePLAN and Connect: Calgary's Parks Plan. Together, they guide how The City can make better use of existing public spaces, respond to changing recreation needs and bring more opportunities closer to where Calgarians live.

Connect calls for multifunctional parks that can serve a range of community needs. At Fonda Park, that means adding dedicated sport fields without taking away what neighbours already use and value. Fonda Park remains a community park first: when the fields aren't booked for organized sport, they're open and free for public use.

The project also reflects GamePLAN's Level the Playing Field and Change the Game principles. It increases access to recreation in a traditionally underserved area, removes barriers like travel distance, and repurposes underused space to meet changing sport and recreation needs.

A Grey Cup legacy

The Stampeders Foundation's 2026 Grey Cup Legacy Project is contributing $500,000 toward the project, alongside City funding through Recreation & Social Programs and the Parks & Playground Amenities (PAPA) program. The fields are a lasting, community-level legacy of the 2026 Grey Cup Festival.

"You don't have to play professional football to learn hard work, teamwork and resilience. You just need an opportunity to play the game," said Calgary Stampeders president Jay McNeil.

Firefighters are seeing an increase in battery fires in homes, garages and businesses across the city. Lithium-ion batteries power many everyday electronics, including phones, laptops, power tools and e-bikes. If not handled correctly, damaged, or overcharged, they can overheat and cause fires or explosions.  

“Fires caused by lithium-ion batteries are especially dangerous, to Calgarians and firefighters,” said Jeff Budai, Community Safety Coordinator with CFD. “They can burn with extreme heat and speed, making them difficult to extinguish. We urge everyone to take precautions when using these types of batteries and to learn what to do if the battery is smoking, releasing a chemical smell or producing flames. It might help to save your life.” 

Since 2015, Calgary has experienced over $46 million in property losses due to lithium-ion battery fires, with $38 million in losses in 2025 alone.  

• While lithium-ion battery fires are not as frequent as structure fires, they doubled in Calgary between 2024 to 2025, from 10 to 21 incidents.
• 2026 is currently on track to see the most ever lithium-ion battery fires on record, with 20 fires, mostly caused by e-scooters, e-bikes and battery packs. 

With the growing local and international trend in battery fires, the Calgary Fire Department has published a new “What to do with your lithium-ion battery” guide to calgary.ca/chargesafe, which helps residents to identify when to call 9-1-1 and where to dispose damaged batteries.   

Quick tips to avoid battery fires  

1. Buy safely: Purchase products with lithium-ion batteries only from reputable vendors. Look for a “UL” or “CSA” stamp on the product to ensure it meets safety standards.  

2. Charge safely: Use only the cables that come with the device and charge devices on a hard, flat surface. Do not overcharge devices; unplug them or remove the battery once fully charged. Do not charge under pillows, on beds, or on couches where batteries can overheat.  

3. Recycle responsibly: Properly recycle lithium-ion batteries at designated collection sites to prevent fire hazards.  

For more information about lithium-ion batteries, please visit calgary.ca/chargesafe  

Family-friendly events 

During Fire Prevention Week, we are hosting several events to help Calgarians learn about the importance of charging and recycling lithium-ion batteries safely.  

Calgarians of all ages are invited to drop by to talk to the firefighters, tour the fire trucks and enter to win some great prizes. 

October 4 

• Fire Station Open House
• Location: Fire Station 30, 6 McKenzie Towne Gate SE
• Time: 1 - 4 p.m. 

October 7 

• Meet Calgary firefighters to learn about fire prevention and enjoy a free VR experience
• Location: CF Chinook Centre
• Time: 3 - 7 p.m. 

October 10 

• Meet Calgary firefighters to learn about fire prevention and enjoy a free VR experience!
• Location: Sunridge Mall
• Time: 10 a.m. -  4 p.m. 

Did you know? 

• Battery fires at City landfills and recycling facilities are increasing due to improper disposal, with over 50 fire incidents reported at City landfills and recycling facilities in 2025.
• Since 2015, Calgary has experienced over $46 million in property loss due to lithium-ion battery fires, with $38 million in losses in 2025 alone.
• While lithium-ion battery fires are not as frequent as structure fires, they doubled in Calgary between 2024 to 2025, from 10 to 21 incidents.
• 2026 is currently on track to see the most ever lithium-ion battery fires on record, with 20 fires, mostly caused by e-scooters, e-bikes and battery packs.

About Fire Prevention Week
Fire Prevention Week is held annually by fire departments across North America. Fire Prevention Day was proclaimed in Canada in 1919 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, as well as a major fire that destroyed the Centre Block of the Parliament buildings in Ottawa on February 3, 1916. In 1922, Fire Prevention Day expanded to Fire Prevention Week.

For more information about Fire Prevention Week, please visit calgary.ca/firepreventionweek 

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Starting October 1, Calgarians will be able to recycle more packaging materials through their blue carts and community recycling depots as Alberta expands residential recycling programs under its Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations. The expanded program gives residents more opportunities to recycle common household packaging that previously belonged in the garbage.

Newly accepted materials include:

• Foam packaging such as foam blocks, takeout containers and egg cartons.
• Food and body aerosols such as cooking spray, sunscreen and hairspray.
• Flexible plastic bags and wrappers such as chip bags and granola bar wrappers.
• Tubes such as toothpaste and deodorant containers.

“For Calgarians, recycling is part of everyday life, and this change means more of the packaging residents use can now be recycled through the city’s residential recycling system,” said Sharon Howland, Leader, Program Management, Waste & Recycling Services. “It’s a practical improvement that makes recycling easier and more convenient for households across the city while supporting a more consistent recycling system across Alberta.”

To ensure materials can be successfully sorted and recycled, all recyclables should be empty, clean and loose before being placed in blue carts.

• Empty containers of liquids and food residue.
• Clean containers by rinsing or wiping them out.
• Place recyclables loose in the cart, not in bags.

The City of Calgary will continue collecting blue carts on the current collection schedule, with no changes to pickup service.

Residents will not see any changes to their ENMAX bills when the new recycling changes take effect on October 1. Through Alberta's EPR framework, producers are taking on most of the costs of residential recycling. As a result, The City's Blue Cart fee for single-family households was reduced on April 1, 2025, saving households $7.17 annually.

The expanded program applies to both single-family households and multi-family properties. Multi-family property managers and condo boards can register with Circular Materials to access free recycling collection services and the expanded list of accepted materials.

Residents can learn more about the new recycling program and view the complete list of accepted materials at calgary.ca/recyclemore or contact 311 for assistance.

NOTE to media: City-provided b-roll will be posted on the Newsroom later today and can be accessed here, when available.

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About Alberta's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework:

The expanded list of accepted materials is part of Alberta's Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework, which creates a more consistent residential recycling system across the province. Residents across Alberta will be able to recycle the same accepted packaging materials, regardless of where they live. Under EPR, producers such as manufacturers and brands are responsible for managing the packaging and paper products they supply once those materials become waste. The first phase of Alberta's EPR regulations came into effect on April 1, 2025. The second phase expands the range of materials accepted in residential recycling programs.

The decision marks a significant milestone following years of Indigenous community leadership, Elder guidance, advocacy, engagement and partnership. A portion of the City-owned lands currently leased to The Confluence will be reallocated to IGPS for the future Indigenous Gathering Place. The exact location and size of the parcel will be determined through the next phase of work between IGPS, The City and The Confluence.

“This is a significant milestone in a journey that has been guided by Elders and Indigenous community for many years,” says Buddie Dixon, co-chair, Indigenous Gathering Place Society. “Moh’kinsstis has been a place of gathering since time immemorial. Knowing the Indigenous Gathering Place will have a visible and permanent home here brings us one step closer to creating a place where Indigenous Peoples can gather, practice culture, share knowledge and strengthen community for generations to come.”

Moh’kinsstis has been a place of gathering and significance for Indigenous Peoples since time immemorial. Its history extends far beyond the establishment of Fort Calgary in 1875. The future Indigenous Gathering Place will be rooted in this much longer relationship between Indigenous Peoples and the lands and waters where the Bow and Elbow rivers meet.

The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland Society (formerly the Fort Calgary Preservation Society) acquired operations of the 42-acre site in 1985. In recent years, the civic partner has evolved to centre the land’s Indigenous significance through programming, exhibits and committed land stewardship.   

“For close to four years, The Confluence has focused on building relationships with Indigenous community members and developing offerings like the Confluence Reciprocity Program and the Holy Gathering Place, which actively welcome and support Indigenous-led initiatives to the site,” said Jennifer Thompson, president of The Confluence. “We believe that a neighbouring Indigenous Gathering Place will be complementary to that work.” 

The City, the Indigenous Gathering Place Society, and The Confluence will now work together to identify the specific parcel for the future Indigenous Gathering Place and determine the changes required to the existing land lease. 

“Confirming a future home for the Indigenous Gathering Place at Moh’kinsstis is an important step in The City’s commitment to reconciliation,” says Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “This is a vision that Elders and Indigenous community have carried forward for many years. We are committed to working with the Indigenous Gathering Place and The Confluence to establish a home where their vision can take root for generations to come.”

Mayor Farkas, Jennifer Thompson and Buddie Dixon were at an event for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation commemoration at The Confluence, to share the news. 

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Things to do

Orange Shirt Day Ceremony

Join us to commemorate Indian residential school victims, honour survivors and their families, and commit to acting on reconciliation. Remembering the Children.

Wednesday, Sept. 30, 9 to 10:30 a.m. at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland, 750 9 Ave. S.E.

The program features keynote speakers, remarks from the Mayor, a moment of silence and cultural performances that highlight Indigenous traditions and youth voices, culminating in a round dance.

Together, we will reflect on the legacy of residential schools and reaffirm our commitment to truth, reconciliation and shared understanding.

To learn more about this event and other events happening in the community, and to watch a live broadcast, if you are unable to make it in-person, visit calgary.ca/orangeshirtday

The following structures will be illuminated orange in honour of National Truth and Reconciliation Day and as part of Calgary Culture Days, which highlights local events while honouring Orange Shirt Day:

• Reconciliation Bridge
• Centre Street Bridge
• Calgary Tower

Additionally, flags on City of Calgary buildings will be lowered to half-mast.

Tee up at City golf courses
Get into the swing of things at City driving ranges or tee it up at one of our seven municipal golf courses at five locations throughout the city. Visit calgary.ca/golf to learn more and book a tee time.

Getting around

Calgary Transit
On Wednesday, Sept. 30, buses and CTrains will be operating on a modified Saturday level of service, in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On Demand will continue providing regular weekday service.

Visit calgarytransit.com for more details, including Call Centre and Customer Service hours, and to plan your trip.

Calgary Parking
On-street ParkPlus zones will be free on Wednesday, Sept. 30. Weekend rates will apply at Calgary Parking parkades and surface lots. Regular rates will be in effect at partner lots, including TELUS Spark, Calgary Stampede, Calgary Zoo and Heritage Park.

The Calgary Parking Contact Centre and Impound Lot will be closed on Wednesday, Sept. 30. For more information, please visit Calgary Parking.

Drivers are also reminded to follow school-zone parking rules and avoid stopping or parking where it may block sightlines, crosswalks, driveways or traffic flow. For safe parking reminders around schools, visit CalgaryParking.com/SafeSchools.

Road construction and traffic safety
The following road closures may affect travel. Calgarians are encouraged to visit calgary.ca/trafficinfo before travelling for a full list of current traffic incidents, road closures and detours.

Southwest

• 5 Avenue S.W. and 3 Street S.W. – multi-lane closures on 5 Avenue S.W. and a full road closure on 3 Street S.W. for ongoing ENMAX manhole rebuild work.
• 14 Street S.W. between 17 Avenue S.W. and 19 Avenue S.W. – two-way traffic is in place on the west side during ongoing work.
• 6 Avenue S.W. between 10 Street S.W. and 11 Street S.W. – two right lanes are closed until Oct. 6.
• 8 Street S.W. project – northbound closure on 8 Street S.W. between 8 Avenue S.W. and 10 Avenue S.W. during ongoing project work.

Northwest

• 16 Avenue N.W. at Monterey Avenue N.W. – lane reversal with two eastbound lanes on weekdays from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Southeast

• Highfield Crescent S.E. at 15 Street S.E. – full road closure for ongoing Deerfoot Trail Improvement Project work.
• 6 Street S.E. underpass – lane closures on 9 Avenue S.E. between 5 Street S.E. and 8 Street S.E. for underpass project work.

Northeast

• 16 Avenue N.E. and Deerfoot Trail N.E. – ongoing closure at 16 Avenue N.E. and Deerfoot Trail N.E.
• Memorial Drive N.E. between 68 Street N.E. and Abbeydale Drive N.E. – multi-lane closures for project work.

Calgarians are encouraged to plan ahead before travelling. Download the Waze app for real-time driver information and visit calgary.ca/PlanYourTrip for tools to help navigate your commute. As students return to school, drivers are reminded to slow down, watch for children and take extra care near schools. For more school traffic safety tips, visit calgary.ca/besafe.

Around the house

Landfill and Eco Centre hours

Landfill and Eco Centre hours and locations in Calgary are available on calgary.ca/landfill.

Facility hours and closures

The following will be closed on Wednesday, Sept. 30:

• Indoor pools and fitness and leisure centres
• Maxwell Soccer Centre
• North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres
• Arenas
• Animal Services Centre

Programs

• Registered programs and swimming lessons will not run Sept. 30. Check your schedule at liveandplay.calgary.ca.
• Drop-in programs will not be offered on Sept. 30. More info at calgary.ca/dropin.

We invite all Calgarians to join us at The Confluence on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. to commemorate Orange Shirt Day. 

“Orange Shirt Day is a time to come together in remembrance, reflection and learning,” says Lorelei Higgins, Team Lead with The City’s Indigenous Relations Office. “By listening to stories, honouring survivors and those who never returned home, and strengthening our understanding of this history, we each have a role to play in advancing truth, reconciliation and lasting relationships.”  

This event is free and open to the public. 

We encourage everyone to wear orange as a visible commitment to remembering the children impacted by residential schools and supporting the ongoing journey of reconciliation. 

If you cannot attend in person, we invite you to learn more or watch the event live online at calgary.ca/orangeshirtday. 

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"The completion of the Sunnyside Flood Barrier is a major achievement for Calgary and a significant step forward in our efforts to build a more flood-resilient city,” said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. "This project strengthens our ability to withstand future flood events while creating lasting community spaces that Sunnyside residents and visitors can enjoy for generations to come."

The flood barrier provides the communities of Sunnyside and Hillhurst with protection from a one-in-100-year flood event, meaning a flood with a one per cent chance of occurring in any given year. The project represents a total investment of $73 million over a decade, from initial planning through to completion, delivering a significant step forward in reducing flood risk and strengthening Calgary’s long-term resilience.

Spanning 2.4 kilometres, the barrier combines permanent flood walls, sheet pile walls, demountable flood walls and deployable flood protection systems to reduce flood risk while maintaining community access, strengthening connections to the Bow River and preserving the character of the surrounding area.

Michael Thompson, Chief Operating Officer – Water Utility notes the importance of investing in Calgary’s flood resilience. “Building a flood barrier Calgarians can rely on means preparing in advance for extreme events and reducing their impacts when they occur. The Sunnyside Flood Barrier is an important example of how long-term planning and investment help protect people, homes and businesses from river flooding."

Community input played a significant role in shaping the project and the public spaces surrounding the barrier. Through planning and design, Sunnyside and Hillhurst residents and The City of Calgary Council emphasized the importance of preserving connections to the Bow River, enhancing public spaces and honouring the community’s history.

As a result, the project includes nine new seating areas, two food truck pads, improved pathways and public spaces along the river for people walking, wheeling and cycling, along with approximately 200 new trees, including 68 Memorial poplar clone trees, and additional landscaping enhancements. Four key public spaces were also enhanced throughout the project, which include the Calgary Soldiers’ Memorial, Peace Bridge North Shore, 7 Street N.W. lookout and Prince’s Island Pedestrian Bridge & Bow River access.

“What began as a vision on paper has now become a lasting investment in Calgary’s future,” said Martin Pritchard, Manager of Linear Infrastructure Delivery. “Guided by community input and brought to life through the collective expertise of multiple project teams, the Sunnyside Flood Barrier delivers critical flood protection while enhancing public spaces and celebrating the unique history and character of the community.”

Since the 2013 flood, over $1.3 billion has been invested in flood mitigation and resilience projects throughout Calgary. Mitigation work that is already complete or is underway has reduced Calgary’s flood risk by approximately 70 per cent and our flood damages by $118 million every year. Through a coordinated approach that combines upstream, community-level and property-level flood protection measures, The City continues to strengthen resilience across Calgary's river valleys. Investments in Calgary’s flood protection directly support the future of Calgary’s communities, businesses, and infrastructure.

The Sunnyside Flood Barrier is now operational and protecting the community, while final landscaping and public realm enhancements continue. Landscaping and pathway work are expected to be completed by the end of October 2026. For the latest information, visit www.calgary.ca/sunnysidebarrier.

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“We are pleased to have more than 90 per cent of the project materials required to complete the project on-site in Calgary, including 93% for the steel pipe,” said Darren Finney, Manager, Major Projects. “Crews continue to make strong progress across both stages, and we remain on track for the new feeder main to be in service by the end of the year.”

Stage A construction update

Stage A construction began in January and used microtunnelling to complete approximately 3.7 kilometres of tunneling beneath existing infrastructure. Installation of both the concrete carrier pipe and the new steel feeder main between the Shaganappi Pump Station and 73 Street N.W. is now complete. Stage A construction remains underway in the area, with crews continuing valve chamber installation, pipe welding and work on supporting infrastructure.

Stage B construction update

Stage B open-cut construction along 34 Avenue N.W. in Bowness began in June and remains on schedule. More than 1.6 km of steel feeder main pipe has been installed, representing approximately 61 per cent of the Stage B alignment. Pipe installation is complete on seven of the 13 blocks with another three currently underway.

Stage B construction continues in sections, with four crews working simultaneously. Roadways, sidewalks and property access are being restored as construction advances. Landscaping restoration will continue into Spring 2027.

Looking ahead

The Bearspaw South Feeder Main will need to be shut down to connect the new feeder main to the existing water system. Pipe tie-in connections at various locations along the new feeder main pipe will include open-cut construction similar to ongoing Stage B construction. Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions and indoor water conservation will be required during this time.

Feeder main commissioning is estimated to begin in December. Once the pipe is connected, the water restrictions will be lifted, but we still need to fill, disinfect and complete water quality testing before the new feeder main is in service.

These estimated date ranges are subject to change based on construction timelines and project logistics.

Parkdale Boulevard Repairs

Additional repairs will be completed this fall on the feeder main between the Shaganappi Pump Station and the Memorial Pump Station along Parkdale Boulevard and Memorial Drive N.W.

Recent condition assessments identified locations on the 1500 mm section of the Bearspaw South Feeder main along Parkdale Boulevard that require proactive repairs. While the 1500 mm and the 1950 mm pipe, which is the pipe currently being replaced, are both part of the same feeder main, they are separate sections with different condition profiles. Assessments of the 1500 mm between the Shaganappi Pump Station and the Memorial Pump Station, show it remains in good overall condition and does not require replacement. Instead, targeted repairs at specific locations will help maintain the pipe's long-term reliability.

The repairs will involve 24/7 construction, excavating locations, removing sections of pipe and replacing them with new steel segments.

Community support

We continue to work directly with residents, businesses and property owners affected by construction. Anyone with questions or concerns can contact the project team.

Community members are encouraged to attend upcoming information sessions and can register online at calgary.ca/bearspawfeedermain. They can also visit the project's Community Resource Centre at the Bowness Community Association. Office hours are Monday and Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Bearspaw South Feeder Main Construction Liaisons are available at the Community Resource Centre on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

For project information and construction updates, visit calgary.ca/bearspawfeedermain

The removals were completed to proactively manage safety risks for dead and dying trees. Rather than going directly to compost, suitable branches, logs and other woody material from the removals have been provided to the zoo, where they are being put to use to support the animals in their care.

The material is being used for habitat enrichment and browse (food) for a variety of animals including moose, giraffes, camels, gorillas, monkeys and hippos, providing new opportunities for the animals to snack, explore, forage, climb and play.

“The urban forest plays an important role in Calgary's quality of life. This partnership shows how we can continue generating value even after a tree's lifecycle has ended,” said Wayne Driscoll, Urban Forestry Superintendent, Calgary Parks and Open Spaces. “By connecting City operations with community partners like The Wilder Institute's Calgary Zoo, we are advancing sustainability, reducing waste, and creating meaningful benefits for both people and animals.”

Hundreds of members from the zoo’s community of volunteers played an integral role in the removals by helping strip branches of leaves, bag woody material, leaves and seeds, cut and sort smaller branch materials into containers for transport and move bagged materials to trucks for transport. There was a lot of work to be done, and the volunteers were there with enthusiasm and big smiles. The City and zoo extend their thanks to everyone who helped make the effort a success.

The removals translated into:

• 304, 6–7-kilogram bags of browse
• 10, 16–22-kilogram silage barrels of woody material
• 1.5 truckloads of bagged branches
• Numerous large logs to be used as “furniture” in animal habitats

“We’re always excited to receive wood like this because it gives us new opportunities to enrich the lives of the animals in our care,” said Katharine Varzé, Horticulture Manager with the Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo. “Whether it’s fresh browse for animals to eat or larger logs that become part of their habitats, there are lots of ways we can put this material to use. It’s pretty special to see trees from Calgary’s urban forest find a second life here at the zoo."

The City regularly completes tree risk assessments, pruning and removals of trees that are dead, declining or pose a public safety risk as part of its ongoing care to support the long-term health of Calgary’s urban forest. As part of this work, Urban Forestry is looking for new ways to make good use of the removed wood material where possible.

The collaboration with The Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo is just one example of how partnerships can help put removed material to good use while supporting animal care and wellbeing. Calgary Parks is also currently working with the zoo to provide removed invasive caragana plants as a snack for the resident giraffes.

The Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo and Calgary Parks social media channels will feature more photos and stories of the animals benefiting from the wood provided in the coming weeks. We invite Calgarians to follow along to see how the trees continue to make a positive impact:

Facebook: facebook.com/thecalgaryzoo, facebook.com/cityofcalgaryparks 
Instagram: instagram.com/thecalgaryzoo, instagram.com/calgaryparks  

*Photos courtesy of The Wilder Institute’s Calgary Zoo

Council approved amendments to the Fire Operations and Fees Bylaw that will come into effect on September 22, 2026. The bylaw changes will increase fines for selling fireworks from $750 to $3,000 and increase fines for discharging fireworks without a permit from $500 to $1,000. The City of Calgary’s review found that Calgary’s current penalties are lower than those in comparable municipalities and are not acting as an effective deterrent.

The updated bylaw will also introduce a new offence of a $1,000 fine for carrying or setting up fireworks for use in a public place. This will allow enforcement officers to intervene when people are preparing to set up fireworks in parks, streets or other public spaces before they are discharged, helping prevent unsafe activity. The amendments come in response to ongoing concerns about unauthorized fireworks activity in Calgary. Between 2023 and 2025, The City received 183 fireworks-related service requests through 311.

“These changes are about protecting public safety while supporting safe and responsible celebrations,” shares Glenn Baxter, Fire Marshal, Calgary Fire Department. “These bylaw amendments give enforcement partners stronger tools to address unauthorized fireworks activity and reduce risks to residents, property and public spaces.” Ryan Pleckaitis, Chief, Community Standards, added “by increasing penalties and introducing a new offence for the open display of fireworks in public places, we are reinforcing a simple message: public safety comes first.”

The City is also recommending a community-led, City-supported approach to celebrations that use fireworks. Through collaborative efforts, The City is committed to helping organizations access grants, permits, logistical support and event-planning assistance while providing safe opportunities for Calgarians to come together and celebrate cultural traditions.

Over the past few months, The City has developed a coordinated operational plan involving Emergency Management & Community Safety (EMCS), the Calgary Fire Department (CFD) and the Calgary Police Service (CPS) to improve planning, education and enforcement during peak periods such as Diwali, Stampede and New Years Eve. Implementation of these plans will begin in Q4 2026.

By strengthening enforcement and improving education to support safe celebrations, Calgary is building a future where cultural traditions can thrive while keeping communities safe, welcoming and vibrant for all.

For more information visit: www.calgary.ca/fireworks

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The internal review examined dispatch actions and decision-making, as well as adherence to operational policies.

“The outcome of this review is difficult,” says Iain Bushell, Director of Emergency Management and Community Safety with The City of Calgary, “as it identified instances where established procedures were not followed, resulting in a delay in how certain information was acted on. That delay did not meet the standard of service we expect.”

The review found gaps in adherence to procedures, rather than gaps in the procedures themselves. As a result, appropriate disciplinary action has been taken. Due to confidentiality obligations related to personnel matters, no further details regarding individual employment actions will be provided.

In addition to the immediate corrective actions taken, a number of measures have been implemented to strengthen accountability and reinforce the consistent application of procedures and protocols, including enhanced training and operational oversight.

“We are committed to strengthening our processes and ensuring our employees have the support, training and tools they need to serve Calgarians effectively,” says Bushell. “Calgary 911 employees are deeply committed to public safety, and when an event has a tragic outcome such as this, they feel the weight of that responsibility.

“Our thoughts remain with Parker’s family, loved ones and all those affected by this tragic loss. We will ensure the lessons from this tragedy lead to meaningful improvements in how we serve the community.”

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BACKGROUNDER

9-1-1 INTERNAL REVIEW: KEY FINDINGS

Dispatch actions and decision-making

• Two calls were made from the day home to 9-1-1 on July 16, 2026.
• A Priority 1 police event was not created during the first call, received at 10:53 a.m., as the caller confirmed they did not wish to file a missing person report at that time and would call back if Parker was not found shortly.  The internal review, however, found that sufficient information was provided to identify the situation as an “endangered missing child” and a Priority 1 police event should have been actioned according to policy.
• The supervisor reviewed the call that was entered as an advised event but did not reopen, escalate or reassess the event after reviewing it. The internal review found that the supervisor should have more fully considered the totality of available information, specifically the child's age and the inability of day home staff to locate the child.
• At 11:24 a.m. the original caller phoned 9-1-1 back to officially report Parker missing and a Priority 1 Missing Person event was created at 11:41 a.m. The internal review found that the delay in entering the event represented a potential opportunity to dispatch police earlier.

Adherence to operational policies and procedures

• The review found that sufficient information was shared to recognize the occurrence as an endangered missing child event and that the established procedures related to missing persons, event prioritization, dispatch requirements and event management were not followed.
• The review highlighted gaps in applying existing policies rather than gaps in the policies themselves. It further determined that departures from established procedures contributed to delayed police notification and response.

Identified opportunities for improvement and actions taken in response

1. Strengthen oversight and quality assurance

Actions taken in response

• All advised events (calls entered as not requiring police assistance) are now reviewed every 15-30 minutes by two supervisors, rather than one, providing an additional layer of oversight to support consistent decision-making and application of operational procedures. (completed)
• A program of spot checks and periodic call reviews is being implemented by coaching mentors and the coaching pool to reinforce operational standards and support continuous learning. (in progress)
• Additional workplace supports have been implemented by positioning employees closer to senior staff to facilitate real-time guidance, mentorship and operational oversight. (completed)

1. Reinforce policy compliance

Actions taken in response

• All employees completed a mandatory review of missing persons policies, including reinforcement of key procedures and expectations. (completed)
• Focused team briefings were conducted to reinforce policy adherence, accuracy, timeliness, critical thinking and decision-making, including the operational impacts of dispatch decisions. (completed)
• A broader review of policies and standard operating procedures is underway to strengthen clarity, reduce ambiguity and support consistent operational decision-making. (in progress)

1. Enhance training and professional development

Actions taken in response

• New recruit training is being extended by one week, bringing the program to a total of 11 weeks. (in progress)
• Additional training focused on critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and problem solving is being developed for delivery to future new-hire classes and all existing employees. (in progress)
• Enhanced training for supervisors, including strengthened guidance on event review and escalation responsibilities, is being developed and implemented. (in progress)

When completed, the highrise tower in the historic Bridgeland/Riverside neighbourhood will include 203 homes with 1-, 2-, and 3-bedrooms. Bridgeland Place will operate under Calgary Housing’s mixed-income model. This means families of all sizes and a wide range of incomes will live in the completely renovated tower at 736 McDougall Court N.E.

“Bridgeland Place has been home to countless Calgarians in its 52 years of operations, and we’re proud to get the work underway to extend the life of the structure for decades more,” Bo Jiang, Calgary Housing interim President and CEO said. “I’m excited to see the new life this work will bring to the building and the neighbourhood.”

Originally constructed in 1971, Bridgeland Place was decommissioned in 2023 due to significant concerns over aging systems like heating and water. One year later, Calgary Housing was brought on by The City of Calgary to lead redevelopment of the 17-storey building, with a nine-month interior demolition and abatement being the first step. Design and permitting processes followed, which included rearranging floorplans to include more family-friendly homes and refurbishment of amenities.

“Redevelopment of Bridgeland Place is a fiscally responsible way to improve the existing housing stock we have as a city, while also minimizing impacts on the surrounding community. I’m glad to have Calgary Housing at the helm of this redevelopment,” Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas said.

Redevelopment of Bridgeland Place will involve rehabilitating the exterior envelope – including replacing windows and siding – to make it more energy efficient. Crews will then focus on a thorough retrofit of the interior, which has been taken down to the cast concrete structure. Exterior work includes landscaping and family-friendly, safety-oriented environmental design.

“Alberta’s government is proud to invest in the renewal of Bridgeland Place, helping ensure more than 500 Calgarians have a safe and affordable place to call home. Strategic investments like this are a smart use of existing infrastructure, stretching taxpayer dollars further and delivering more homes for Albertans,” said Minister of Assisted Living and Social Services Nathan Neudorf.

The retrofit focuses on improving efficiency, reducing emissions and utility costs, improving indoor air quality, and extending the lifespan of the building at a cost less than that of a similar new build.

After an anticipated completion in 2028, more than 500 Calgarians will call Bridgeland Place home once again.

"Calgary Housing's Bridgeland Place retrofit is one of many projects we're proud to support in Calgary. Maintaining existing housing stock is crucial to extend the life of affordable and community housing. We'll continue our work alongside our partners at all levels of government to continue to make homes like these a reality for Calgarians," said Corey Hogan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Calgary Confederation, on behalf of the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada.

“Bridgeland is a wonderful place for Calgarians to call home, and the new residents at the renovated Bridgeland Place will find it to be a walkable and vibrant neighbourhood that supports a rich community life,” said Ward 9 Councillor Harrison Clark. “I look forward to welcoming you all!”

Under Calgary Housing’s mixed-income model, rents at the renovated Bridgeland Place will fit the incomes of the households, and the rents range from deeply affordable to near-market in a mix that meets the operating funding needs of the entire building. That mix means government funding is not required for ongoing operations, only for the construction.

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Today, we’re unveiling the design for the Thunder Slide’s replacement, giving Calgarians a first look at one of the facility's most anticipated new features.

The new slide will replace the Thunder Slide, which served Calgarians from 1994 to 2026, when it had reached the end of its service life. As part of the Village Square Leisure Centre repairs and upgrades project, the replacement slide has been designed to deliver a new generation of thrills while building on the experience Calgarians know and love.

Unlike the current open-air corkscrew design, the new slide will be fully enclosed, helping protect it from Calgary's weather and supporting more reliable operation throughout the year. The ride will feature a dynamic path, taking riders through a series of changing twists and turns before reaching the runout below. The design also incorporates translucent sections that create changing colours and light effects throughout the experience.

A vibrant gradient colour scheme featuring reds, pinks, purples, oranges and yellows will make the slide a striking new addition to the Village Square Leisure Centre pool area.

“We've heard from countless Calgarians about what the Thunder Slide has meant to them over the years," said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “The incredible turnout for the slide's final weekend showed just how much people care about places like this and that recreation facilities create memories that last a lifetime. Replacing the Thunder Slide means future generations will have the chance to create memories of their own and enjoy this beloved recreation experience for decades to come."

The replacement slide forms part of The City’s broader work to renew aging recreation infrastructure and respond to increasing demand for recreation opportunities across Calgary. Through GamePLAN, The City’s public recreation strategy, Calgary is taking a long-term approach to investing in existing community facilities where it makes sense and planning new recreation spaces for a growing city.

Work is underway on repairs and upgrades at Village Square Leisure Centre, with the facility and new slide expected to reopen near the end of 2027. Updates can be found at calgary.ca/VillageSquareRepairs

Quick facts

- The Thunder Slide opened in 1994 and has served generations of Calgarians.
- The existing slide and support structure were more than 30 years old and reached the point where replacement was a more practical long-term solution than continued repairs.
- The new slide will be fully enclosed to improve reliability and help protect it from Calgary's weather.
- Village Square Leisure Centre is expected to reopen by the end of 2027.

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When this incident began on September 6th, firefighters immediately encountered challenging conditions, including limited site access, difficult ground conditions and fire burning deep within landfill materials.  

With an estimated volume of one million cubic metres, the impacted are of the fire equals about 7 or 8 CFL football fields.   

“As you’ll be able to see in the overhead drone footage that we’ve provided, this is literally a mountain of garbage with deep pockets of active fire,” said Chief Dongworth. “The steep, mountainous face of this fire makes access for crews and trucks particularly challenging.” 

Crews will continue to work with contractors and partner agencies to fully extinguish the fire using specialized landfill fire suppression techniques.  

The strategic goal is to cap and smother the remaining fire with dirt. This approach follows industry best practices for control of smoke and extinguishing deep-seated landfill fires and preventing re-ignition. Additional technologies, such as carbon dioxide injection, may be required.  

“We are prioritizing actions that will reduce smoke impact on neighbouring communities. However, unlike a structure fire, landfill fires can burn for extended periods beneath the surface, making them difficult to locate and extinguish,” said Chief Dongworth. 

“Although we should be able to control smoke from the fire in the next few days, this incident could last weeks or even months until onsite fire risk is fully mitigated.” 

Even after fire smoke becomes better controled, Chief Dongworth advised there may be occasional instances of increased smoke and visible flame.  

“While these flare-ups may appear concerning, they are an expected part of the suppression process. As these flare ups occur we will suppress the flames and cover up the area to control the smoke as soon as possible. To those residents in impacted communities, we appreciate your resilience and patience.”  

The list of communities impacted by smoke is significant and include: East Shepard, Remington, Copperfield, New Brighton, McKenzie Towne, Quarry Park, Mahogany, McKenzie Lake, Douglasdale, Seton, Cranston, Chaparral, Lake Bonavista, Riverbend, Parkland, Legacy, Deer Run and Altadore. 

“Again, our immediate efforts remain focused on actions that reduce smoke impact on communities,” said Chief Dongorth. “This includes identifying hot spots, applying water where required and using soil to cap and smother remaining areas of fire.” 

Earlier this week, air monitoring at the province’s Mobile Air Monitoring Laboratory identified one fine particulate matter concentration exceeding the Alberta ambient air quality guideline. While no other exceptions were measured, air quality can change significantly over short distances due to wind patterns, terrain, and local conditions. Therefore, monitoring results may not reflect individual exposures at all locations.  

Residents affected by smoke are encouraged to limit outdoor activity, keep windows and doors closed when smoke is present, and contact Health Link by dialing 811 if they have concerns about smoke-related health impacts. Residents can also check current conditions through Alberta’s Air Quality Health Index: https://www.alberta.ca/air-quality-health-index  

The Calgary Fire Department will continue to provide updates on this incident. Thank you to Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, Calgary Police Services, Alberta Health Services, City of Calgary Waste & Recycling Services, contracted suppression specialists and neighbouring businesses for their continued support during this prolonged and complex incident. 

For more information about the ECCO landfill fire, including current status, FAQs and other resources, please visit: www.calgary.ca/landfillfire

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Construction is underway on Phase 2 of the project, which includes a new 15,000-square-foot public library, a multi-modal street, and parking facilities, will help address a service gap in northwest Calgary and provide spaces for learning, programs and community gathering. Phase 2 also includes an outdoor community commons where people can meet, relax and play.

Today's celebration recognizes significant progress made since construction began on the new library and marks an important milestone in the transformation of the seven-acre site into a vibrant community destination for northwest Calgary. Construction is expected to continue through 2028.

"Symons Valley Library  is an investment in the people and communities of northwest Calgary. This project will bring together important amenities, including a new library, public gathering spaces, and future community services such as a Calgary Transit Terminal, helping create a vibrant destination where residents can connect, learn and thrive,” says Mayor Jeromy Farkas.

When complete, Symons Valley Library will welcome residents to a new community space designed to support the needs of one of Calgary's fastest-growing areas. Future planned phases for this site include the development of adjoining land parcels dedicated for non-market housing and mixed-use development, as well as a Calgary Transit terminal. By co-locating public amenities within a walkable, community-focused environment, the project will create opportunities for connection, recreation and learning close to home.

"After years of advocacy, I’m proud to see this project moving forward and becoming a reality for our growing community. This new purpose-built library will provide a modern, welcoming space designed to meet local needs," says Jennifer Wyness, Councillor for Ward 2.

"A growing city needs more libraries, and the welcoming, accessible, community spaces they provide. Calgary Public Library is a vital part of our city’s core civic infrastructure, and the Symons Valley Library creates more connection, learning, and discovery, for our community,” says Sarah Meilleur, CEO, Calgary Public Library. “This new Library will expand our collections, increase access to early learning opportunities, and bring people together around new ideas and perspectives. Together, we are supporting the community of today, and building the future of our great city.”

Phase 2 of the project includes:

·       A new 15,000-square-foot public library

·       Community commons green space

·       Underground and surface parking to support the site

·       A street designed to improve access throughout the site, whether you walk, drive, bike or wheel.

·       Supporting infrastructure to service future phases of development and community amenities

About Symons Valley Library

Symons Valley Library is a new public library and community  space currently under development at 251 Sage Hill Boulevard N.W. Located within the larger Symons Valley Centre project, the library will serve as a welcoming hub for learning, connection and community life. Future planned phases for this site include the development of adjoining land parcels dedicated for non-market housing and mixed-use development, as well a Calgary Transit terminal. The development will primarily serve residents of Sage Hill, Kincora, Sherwood, Nolan Hill and Evanston.

Established in 1996, the W.O. Mitchell Book Prize is coordinated through a partnership between The City of Calgary and the Writers’ Guild of Alberta, which administers the award as part of the Alberta Literary Competitions. Since its creation, 30 Calgary writers have received this prestigious award. The winning author receives a $5,000 cash prize, presented at the Calgary Awards in June 2027.

Submissions are being accepted until Dec. 1, 2026. Full award criteria and the entry form can be found at calgary.ca/calgaryawards.

Eligibility details:

• Eligible books must have been published anywhere in the world between Jan. 1 and Dec. 1, 2026.
• The author must have lived (permanent address) in Calgary for a minimum of two years, as of Dec. 31, 2026.
• Eligible categories include fiction, poetry, non-fiction, children’s literature, or drama.
• Self-published books with an ISBN are eligible.

Entries are judged by an independent jury recruited by the Writers’ Guild of Alberta. Shortlisted authors will have the opportunity to participate in a public reading event.

The 2026 recipient of the W.O. Mitchell Book Prize was Calgary writer Marcello Di Cintio for his book Precarious: The Lives of Migrant Workers.

Previous recipients include:

• Julie Sedivy (Linguaphile: A Life of Language Love, 2025)
• Clem Martini (Cantata and The Extinction Therapist, 2024)
• Suzette Mayr (The Sleeping Car Porter, 2023)
• Jaspreet Singh (My Mother, My Translator, 2022)

A complete list of previous winners can be found at calgary.ca/calgaryawards.

For more information, visit calgary.ca/calgaryawards or writersguild.ca.

Landfill fires are complex and can take considerable time to fully extinguish because of the volume and variety of materials involved. We appreciate the patience of Calgarians as crews work to safely resolve this incident.

The Government of Alberta continues to monitor air quality. Anyone with health-related concerns should contact Health Link at 811.

We understand Calgarians have questions about how long it is taking to extinguish the fire. Landfill fires are particularly complex and can require prolonged operational timelines due to the volume and variety of materials involved and because fire can burn deep within debris piles. Heavy equipment is needed to uncover burning material so crews can apply water before covering it with clean soil or gravel to cool the material and smother the fire.

Contractors are bringing in large volumes of dirt which heavy equipment operators will use in conjunction with firefighting crews to cover and smother impacted areas of the site. This process has proved to be effective, and efforts are underway to speed up this process. This support will continue until the fire is fully extinguished. 

Protecting the health of Calgarians remains a priority. Please contact Health Link at 811 to speak with a registered nurse if you have questions or concerns related to smoke exposure or air quality. In a medical emergency, including severe difficulty breathing, call 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical attention. 

We appreciate Calgarians’ patience as crews manage this complex incident.

Vulnerable groups such as children, youth, seniors, pregnant women, and those with asthma, heart disease or other underlying health conditions should limit outdoor activities and move indoors if they see or smell smoke. Residents with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions should monitor their symptoms, continue taking prescribed medications and follow the advice provided by their healthcare professionals. 

Alberta Environment and Protected Areas (AB-EPA) has deployed portable and mobile equipment to monitor air quality near the fire since September 9. Air monitoring data is collected and reviewed by Alberta Health Services. There were hourly average readings above Alberta’s ambient air quality guidelines identified in the monitoring and residents in areas directly downwind of the fire may still experience smoke and related health effects. The greatest potential for smoke exposure remains in areas directly downwind of the fire, including Douglasdale, Quarry Park, East Shepard, McKenzie Town, New Brighton, Copperfield, and other neighbouring communities. 

People in areas affected by smoke may experience symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, increased mucus production, coughing or headaches. Residents who experience these symptoms should reduce their exposure to smoke where possible.  

CFD recommends residents in affected areas: 

• keep windows and doors closed, including attached garage doors
• reduce physical activity indoors and outdoors, as needed
• turn furnace thermostats down and furnace fans to the minimum setting. If you have a forced air system to heat or cool your home, upgrade your furnace filters to the highest efficiency filter your system can handle.
• avoid using ventilation systems or whole-house fans that bring outdoor air into the home
• keep air conditioner fresh-air intakes closed and filters clean
• close fireplace dampers on wood-burning fireplaces
• use a high-quality air filter or air cleaner/purifier, if available
• check on family members, neighbours and others who may be more vulnerable to smoke
• call Health Link at 811 if they have health concerns related to smoke exposure
• seek immediate medical attention for severe difficulty breathing, chest pain or other medical emergencies  

Residents should remain aware of changing conditions where they are located. Exposure can vary based on distance from the fire, wind direction and speed, time spent outdoors, and proximity to visible smoke or odours.  

Please contact Health Link at 811 to speak with a registered nurse if you have questions or concerns related to smoke exposure or air quality. In a medical emergency, including chest pain or severe difficulty breathing, call 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical attention. 

Fire suppression and air quality monitoring continue at the site. 

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This electrical work will temporarily reduce the amount of water that can be supplied to Calgary and regional water customers.  

Based on current weather forecasts and projected water demand during this period, outdoor water restrictions are not anticipated at this time. Forecasted cooler temperatures and lower seasonal water use are expected to help keep overall water demand below the available system capacity while the work is underway.  

Residents and businesses are encouraged to continue using water wisely, particularly outdoors, while the work is underway by continuing to follow Calgary’s regular Lawn and Landscaping Watering Schedule.  

While restrictions are not anticipated, weather conditions will continue to be monitored, and plans may be adjusted if circumstances change. If conditions change significantly, The City will provide an update. 

This work is separate from the planned connection of the new Bearspaw South Feeder Main to the existing water system in mid- to late-October, which will require temporary Stage 4 water restrictions and indoor water conservation for an approximately four-week period. 

About the North Calgary Water Servicing Project 

The North Calgary Water Servicing Project includes the construction of a 22-kilometre feeder main, complemented by 10 support facilities, including pump stations and underground storage reservoirs. This project will support Calgary's growing population and strengthen system resilience by adding redundancy to our existing water distribution system. 

The City of Calgary is pleased to announce that the Curbside Treasure Hunt is set to return September 12 and 13, 2026. On those days, residents are invited to set out gently used, reusable items they no longer need on their curb for neighbours to take and enjoy. Think of it as a giant, free garage sale for the whole city!

Members of the public are also welcome to explore their neighbourhoods to find unique and unwanted items that would otherwise end up in landfills.

“Over the past few years, this has become one of our most beloved events, and by taking part, residents can make a big impact in helping reduce waste,” says Natalia Gonzalez, Waste Diversion Specialist. “We invite all members of the public to take part, whether decluttering their home or searching for that next great find.”

New this year

To help make it easier for prospective treasure hunters to see what’s out there, declutterers can now add items they plan to set out for the event to a new online map simply by filling out this form.

How to participate

1. Gather: identify items in your home that you no longer need but could be valuable to someone else.

2. Post: add your items to our online map by filling out this form.

3. Label: mark these items with a “Free” label.

4. Place: set the items out at the curb on September 12 and 13.

5. Discover: residents and treasure hunters can explore different neighborhoods, picking up items they find interesting or useful.

6. Clean up: remove left over items from the curbside by 5 p.m. on September 13. Visit calgary.ca/whatgoeswhere to find out where to recycle, donate or dispose of any remaining items.

For safety reasons, please don’t put out items that could be hazardous or not safe to reuse, such as:

• Mattresses
• Toilets
• Unsafe or recalled items
• Baby gear or safety equipment that may not meet current standards

For more information on permitted items and other event details, visit calgary.ca/treasurehunt.

The Free Fare Zone is an important part of downtown mobility, connecting customers, visitors and workers between Downtown West/Kerby and City Hall/Bow Valley College stations. Currently, customers can travel within the zone without paying a transit fare.

This initiative will help Calgary Transit assess market interest in a naming rights partnership that could generate non-fare revenue while providing a sponsor with a prominent presence along the 7 Avenue transit corridor. The sponsorship would not affect the availability of fare-free service within the Free Fare Zone.

"Calgary Transit is exploring whether there is interest in a naming rights partnership that creates value for both Calgary Transit and a future sponsor," says Sharon Fleming, Director of Calgary Transit. "This process will help us better understand what opportunities may exist while continuing to support the important role the Free Fare Zone plays in downtown mobility."

The initiative follows direction from Council to explore sponsorship opportunities for the Free Fare Zone as part of broader efforts to identify potential non-fare revenue sources. 

"I heard from residents and businesses that the downtown Free Fare Zone is a service that Calgarians want to see maintained. I advocated for continuing the search for a corporate sponsor to secure its long-term viability, offering local businesses a direct way to invest in Calgary's growth, tourism and event economy," said Ward 1 Councillor Kim Tyers.

Interested organizations can learn more about the opportunity beginning Sept. 3 through mid-October 2026. The results will help determine whether a naming rights sponsorship is viable and the value it could provide for both Calgary Transit and Calgarians. 

Learn more about the opportunity here.

Since its inception in 1885, Calgary has lost 84 firefighters in the line of duty, nine during active firefighting, 71 due to illnesses related to firefighting, and four who served in World War I.

Together, these firefighters gave a combined 2,331 years of service to Calgary, reflecting generations of firefighters who dedicated their lives to protecting Calgary and its residents.

To honour our city’s fallen firefighters, Mayor Jeromy Farkas, members of City Council, the Calgary Fire Fighters Association (Local 255) and others joined the Calgary Fire Department and families of the fallen in remembering the Calgary firefighters who have given their lives in service to their community.

Each year, the names of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice are read aloud during the public ceremony. As each name is read, the Memorial Bell is sounded in their honour, followed by the Firefighters’ Invocation and Bell Ceremony.

Sadly, the Calgary Fire Department Honour Guard added the names of Captain Lorn Howes, Lieutenant Ronald A. Randen, and Deputy Chief Alton G. Mathers to the Walls of Memory/Lantern of Light monument in the plaza.

All three firefighters died due to cancers acquired through occupational exposure.

“Today, we remember not only how our fallen firefighters died, but how they lived, served and cared for this community,” said Calgary Fire Department Chief Steve Dongworth. “We gather with heavy hearts, along with profound gratitude.”

Of the 84 firefighter deaths in Calgary, nine are considered “traumatic.” Four others died while fighting in World War I. The remaining 71 deaths are considered “presumptive” — the result of illnesses such as cancer that can manifest years later. 

Having not seen a traumatic workplace fatality since 1992, the Calgary Fire Department is committed to continued improvements and protections against firefighter illness and injury. In addition to annual cancer screening for all firefighters, Calgary Fire has made many changes to improving supports for mental health, wellness and safety, and continues to modify its practices and improve its equipment and duty gear.

“Our fire service continues to adapt to new risks, such as highly toxic lithium-ion battery fires,” says Chief Dongworth. “Even residential house fires that we routinely attend produce significantly more toxic smoke and heat than in the past. Newer synthetic and petrochemical-based materials release lethal volatile organic compounds, benzene, styrene, hydrogen cyanide, and dioxins.”

In response, Calgary Fire is currently investigating emerging technologies that could, for example, result in significant improvements in decontamination of firefighter duty gear, using enhanced carbon dioxide cleaning that would also increase the lifespan of front-line clothing and equipment.

“The greatest way we honour those we have lost is by carrying their lessons forward and making this profession safer for the firefighters who serve today,” said Chief Dongworth. “We learn. We improve. We adapt. And we do everything we can to help future firefighters live longer, healthier lives.”

As always, the memorial concluded with the laying of wreaths and a closing opportunity for reflection.

For more information on the Calgary Fire Department and our fallen firefighters, please visit our website.

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Things to do

Tee up at City golf courses

Get into the swing of things at City driving ranges or tee it up at one of our seven municipal golf courses at five locations throughout the city. Visit calgary.ca/golf to learn more and book a tee time.

Paid swimming
We are offering paid swimming on Sept. 7 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Southland Leisure Centre (2000 Southland Dr. S.W.).

Paid skating
We are offering paid family skating on Sept. 7 from 1 to 2:15 p.m. and 2:30 to 3:45 p.m. at Southland Leisure Centre (2000 Southland Dr. S.W.).

There will also be paid Stick & Pucks on Sept. 7 from 1:45 to 3 p.m. at Southland Leisure Centre (2000 Southland Dr. S.W.).

View our arena rules for public skates. Equipment rentals are not available.

Getting around

Calgary Transit 
Over the Labour Day weekend we adjust our service hours. On Monday, Sept. 7, we will be operating buses, CTrains and On Demand on a Sunday level of service.

Fall service changes also came into effect starting Aug. 31. View the full list of changes, including the new and modified routes in the North Central area and Saddletowne, at calgarytransit.com/Fall2026.

CTrain closures on the Labour Day weekend:  

The Blue Line will be closed between City Hall/Bow Valley College and Marlborough stations starting Saturday, Sept. 5 until start of service Tuesday, Sept. 8. Shuttle buses will replace CTrain service between impacted stations, with a separate express shuttle providing direct service between City Hall/Bow Valley College and Marlborough stations.

View the full details, including shuttle route maps and information about detoured downtown shuttle stops during the parade, at calgarytransit.com/CTrain-service.

Parade Day:
Parts of downtown will be closed due to the Calgary Pride Parade on Sunday, Sept. 6, and some bus routes will be affected. Detour route information will be made available at calgarytransit.com/service-updates.

Labour Day Classic: 
We advise customers taking transit to the Labour Day Classic at McMahon Stadium on Monday to plan ahead and give themselves some extra time. Check the trip planner to find the best routes to get to the game ahead of the opening ceremony.

More information on travelling by transit this long weekend can be found on the Calgary Transit website.

Calgary Parking 
Enjoy free parking in on-street ParkPlus zones on Monday, Sept. 7. Weekend rates apply at all Calgary Parking parkades and surface lots. Please note that regular rates will be in effect at partner lots such as TELUS Spark, the Calgary Stampede, Calgary Zoo and Heritage Park.

The Calgary Parking Contact Centre and Impound Lot will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7. For more information, please visit calgaryparking.com.

Road closures 
Below is a list of some of the major road closures and construction around Calgary over the long weekend:

Calgary Pride Parade Road closures: on Sept. 6, the following closures and traffic restrictions will be in place for the Calgary Pride Parade:

• Starting at 6 a.m.: 9 Avenue S.W. between 11 and 5 Street S.W. will be closed for the parade staging area.
• Starting at 10 a.m.: 9 Avenue between 5 Street S.W. and 8 Street S.E., will be closed for the parade route, with additional closures on intersecting roads.
• Closures will remain in place until the event is safely cleared. Roads will reopen in coordination with the Calgary Police Service.
• Learn more on the event website.

Southwest

• 8 Street S.W. between 6 Avenue and 7 Avenue S.W.: ongoing construction for ENMAX Vault Rebuild - two-way traffic on westside of 8 Street.
• 8 Avenue S.W. between 3 Street and 4 Street S.W.: full road closure Sept. 5 to 7.
• 8 Street Project: ongoing southbound road closure at 8 Street S.W. between 8 Avenue and 10 Avenue S.W.

Northwest

• Sunnyside Flood Barrier: ongoing construction impacts along Memorial Drive. Expect major delays.
• 2 Avenue N.W. between 9 Street and 9A Street N.W.: full road closure Sept. 4 to 5.
• 10 Street N.W. between 2 Avenue and 3 Avenue N.W.: southbound road closure Sept. 4 to 8.
• Memorial Drive N.W. between 16 Street and 10 Street N.W.: eastbound road closure and two-way traffic on westbound lanes Sept. 5.

Southeast

• Anderson Road Roadway Improvements Project: Anderson Road S.E. between Macleod Trail and Bow Bottom Trail - continued construction (various lane closures).
• Ogden Road S.E. between 17 Street and 42 avenue S.E.: southbound road closure Sept. 4 to 7.
• Centre Street S between 12 Avenue and 13 Avenue S.E.: full road closure Sept. 5.
• Deerfoot Trail Improvement Project: ongoing full road closure on Highfield Crescent S.E. at 15 Street S.E.
• 6 Street Underpass: lane closures on 9 Avenue S.E. between 5 Street and 8 Street S.E.

Northeast

•  56 Street N.E. and 28 Avenue N.E.: full road closure of intersection for milling and paving Sept. 5.

Plan ahead. Download the Waze app for real-time driver info and use The City’s other traveller information tools. Visit calgary.ca/trafficinfo for a full list of traffic events, incidents, closures and detours.

Be Safe. Stay Alert. On holidays and every day, we ask drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to prioritize safety and avoid distractions. Distraction is a serious issue that puts all of us at risk. Distraction includes electronic devices, but it also includes getting lost in our thoughts or having too much on our minds that we don’t pay attention before it’s too late.

Visit calgary.ca/besafe  and calgary.ca/traffictips to learn more about what you can do keep yourself and others safe on roads and pathways.

​Around the house  

Landfill and Eco Centre hours
Landfill and Eco Centre hours and locations in Calgary are available on calgary.ca/landfill. 

Facility hours and closures
The following will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7:

•  Arenas (except for those mentioned in the ‘Things to do’ section above)
• Indoor pools and fitness and leisure centres
• Maxwell Soccer Centre
• North Mount Pleasant and Wildflower Arts Centres (also closed on Sept. 5 and 6)
• Animal Services Centre 

Programs

• Registered programs and swimming lessons will not run from Sept. 5 – 7. Check your schedule at liveandplay.calgary.ca.
• Drop-in programs will not be offered on Sept. 7 but may be available on Sept. 5 and 6. More info at calgary.ca/dropin.

Excessive noise is defined as any noise that is emitted or produced that is beyond the regular operation of the motor vehicle. Under the Traffic Bylaw, excessive noise refers to a motor vehicle that is capable of emitting any sound exceeding 92 dB(A) while the engine is at idle or emitting any sound exceeding 96 dB(A) while the engine is at any speed greater than idle.

Throughout the operation, conducted in partnership with the Calgary Police Service (CPS), peace officers issued 240 tickets including 41 noise-related violations, and provided 40 warnings to drivers. The initiative targeted ongoing concerns from residents, businesses and City Council about excessive vehicle noise and safety along the corridor.

“Operation Silent Night demonstrated the value of combining officer presence, education, and enforcement to address issues that matter to Calgarians,” said Brad Johnson, Inspector and head of the Traffic Safety Team. “The results show that when drivers understand the rules and see a visible enforcement presence, we can make a meaningful difference in reducing excessive vehicle noise and improving the quality of life for residents and businesses.”

The enforcement initiative focused on overall driver behaviour down along 17 Ave. Some of the violations that officers came across were noisy exhaust systems, excessive engine revving, squealing tires and other unnecessary vehicle noise along with speeding, illegal U-turns, and no registration / or insurance.

"Driver behaviour can disrupt communities and impact livability," said Johnson. "Drivers are responsible for their behaviour and the noise generated by their vehicles at all times."

Team shifts focus to playground zone safety

With the completion of Operation Silent Night, the Traffic Safety Team has resumed playground zone enforcement as students return to classrooms across Calgary. Officers will be rotating through communities across the city, beginning in northwest Calgary, with a focus on speeding and improving safety around schools and playgrounds.

Playground zones are in effect daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., year-round. Drivers must obey the posted speed limit and remain alert for children, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users.

Speeding fines in playground zones are based on how far a driver exceeds the posted speed limit. Drivers travelling 15 km/h over the limit can face a fine of $249, while those travelling 30 km/h over the limit can face fines of $543, not including victim surcharges and demerit points.

“Back-to-school season is one of the busiest times of year around schools and playgrounds,” said Johnson. “Slowing down in playground zones is one of the simplest and most effective ways drivers can help keep children safe. A few extra seconds behind the wheel can prevent a serious collision and make our communities safer for everyone.”

The City reminds motorists to reduce their speed, eliminate distractions and watch for children who may enter roadways unexpectedly.

About the Traffic Safety Team

The Traffic Safety Team was established by City Council in November 2023 with $1.69 million in funding to address growing concerns about road safety and vehicle noise. The team includes eight peace officers, two sergeants and one inspector, and works closely with CPS and other partners to support coordinated, city-wide traffic safety enforcement.

Residents wishing to submit a complaint about traffic issues can do so by visiting the Calgary Police Service Traffic Reporting page and selecting the Traffic Service Request (TSR) form.

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.

The appointment marks an important step in implementing recommendations from the Bearspaw Independent Review Panel, which identified the need for independent oversight and the Chair position as a critical leadership role.

Stanley’s appointment follows a competitive recruitment and selection process created specifically for selecting the WUOB Chair.

Stanley is a retired utility executive with more than 25 years of experience at EPCOR Utilities Inc., including 11 years as Senior Vice President of EPCOR Water Canada, where he was responsible for providing water and wastewater services to more than 85 communities, including over 1.5 million people in the Edmonton region.

He also served on the boards of the Canadian Water Network and Global Water Futures Observatories.

Most recently, Stanley sat on the Bearspaw Feeder Main Independent Review Panel and Advisory Group, where he gained direct insight into Calgary's water utility and the challenges facing the system.

"Stephen has an impressive background in utility operations, governance and risk management gained over a long career in the sector," said Councillor Rob Ward, Chair of the WUOB Chair Selection Committee. "The Selection Committee was looking for a candidate with proven leadership, deep utility expertise and the ability to help establish this board from the ground up. Stephen's experience makes him exceptionally well-suited for that role."

As Chair, his immediate priorities will be recruiting additional board members and developing the WUOB’s initial work plan. The full WUOB is expected to be in place by the end of 2026.

“Reliable water service depends on informed, risk-based decision making and a focus on long-term system performance," said Stanley. "I look forward to helping establish the Board and working with future members, Council and Administration to help shape the future of Calgary's water utility.”

Background

The establishment of the Water Utility Oversight Board (WUOB) was directed by Council in response to recommendations from the Independent Review Panel, following the Bearspaw Feeder Main failures.

The WUOB will provide Council with independent oversight, expertise and advice on utility performance, finances, long-term planning, risk management and compliance with regulations and policies.

The WUOB will consist of one Chair and four members and will serve as an independent committee of Council. The WUOB's role is advisory and will not make operational decisions.

Appointments to the WUOB are made by Council through the Nominations Committee. For the inaugural Chair position, Council approved a dedicated recruitment and selection process that included support from an independent search firm and a Council-appointed Selection Committee.

Stephen Stanley, Ph.D, P.Eng

Stephen Stanley is a retired executive with over 25 years of experience at EPCOR Utilities Inc. This included roles such as Senior Vice President Commercial Service where he was responsible for EPCOR’s business development activities as well as EPCOR’s operations of water, natural gas and electricity utilities in Ontario.  He also spent 11 years as the Senior Vice President of EPCOR Water Canada, responsible for providing water and wastewater treatment services to more than 85 communities, including over 1.5 million people in the Edmonton region. 

Stephen was a member of the Independent Review Panel for the City of Calgary Water Utility, member of the Board for the Canadian Water Network and Chair of the Board for Global Water Futures Observatories. 

Stephen holds a B.Sc. in Civil Engineering, a M.Sc. in Water Resources Engineering, and a Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering, all from the University of Alberta. He is also a graduate of the Executive Program at Queen's University.  Prior to joining EPCOR, Stephen was a Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Alberta.

In a new episode of Calgary Conversations, Mayor Jeromy Farkas joins host Jose Rodriguez for a timely conversation about how Council’s Priorities will shape the city’s next four years, and what it takes to move from aspirations to measurable action.

From trust, transparency and accountability to affordability, public safety and essential infrastructure, the conversation explores how Council’s Strategic Priorities will help guide decisions, investments and trade-offs as The City develops its 2027–2030 business plans and budgets.

“Trust isn’t something government gets to declare; it’s something we earn,” said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “Calgarians want to know their concerns are being heard, their tax dollars are being spent wisely and decisions are being made responsibly. These priorities help us stay focused on what matters most and, ultimately, Calgarians should be able to see and feel the results.”

Council established six priorities to provide focus and direction for the next four years:

• Reliable & Sustainable Infrastructure
• Safe City
• Functional Transportation Network
• Community Livability & Well-being
• Balanced Growth & Evolving Neighbourhoods
• Trusted & Collaborative Government

Using Trusted & Collaborative Government as a lens, the episode explores how all six priorities connect to the services and issues Calgarians experience every day.

Mayor Farkas reflects on lessons from the Bearspaw South Feeder Main break and how the experience reinforced the importance of reliable infrastructure, planning for the future and communicating openly with Calgarians.

The conversation also looks ahead to the 2027–2030 budget and how Council will balance affordability with the investments needed to support a growing city.

“Budgets are ultimately about choices. We can’t do everything at once,” said Mayor Farkas. “Council’s priorities give us a framework for those decisions and help us focus investments where they can have the greatest impact for Calgarians.”

The episode also explores how Calgarians will know whether progress is being made. Council’s Strategic Priorities will help guide The City’s business plans, budgets and decision-making over the next four years, with progress measured through reporting, public dashboards and performance measures.

For Mayor Farkas, accountability means being clear about what success looks like, showing progress and being open about where more work is needed.

“The measure of success isn’t the plan itself; it’s what gets delivered,” said Farkas. “People shouldn’t have to take our word for it. They should be able to see and feel the results.”

As Calgary grows, public input will continue to help inform the choices ahead and how The City balances service expectations, infrastructure needs, affordability and long-term growth.

Join the conversation. Watch or listen to Episode 23: Building trust through action: how Council’s Priorities will shape Calgary’s next chapter at Calgary.ca/CalgaryConversations, YouTube or Spotify.

Learn more about Council’s Priorities on calgary.ca.

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“Calgary’s parks are some of the spaces that makes our city so special,” said Mayor Farkas. “This international recognition is something all Calgarians can be proud of. For Reader Rock Garden and Confederation Park to earn the Green Flag Award for a second year in a row speaks to the incredible work of our City staff, volunteers and community partners who care for these spaces every day. As the first parks in Canada to receive this recognition, they’re also showing the world the standard Calgary sets for our amazing parks and open spaces.”

Following a rigorous evaluation process, the two Calgary parks successfully retained their Green Flag status, reinforcing Calgary's reputation for providing exceptional public spaces. “It’s fantastic to see the parks team in Calgary being recognised with two Green Flag Awards for another consecutive year. Achieving and retaining the international certification shows they are committed to providing top quality parks and green spaces for their communities,” said Carl McClean, International Development Manager for the Green Flag Award. “Congratulations to everyone involved.”

Receiving this award highlights The City's ongoing commitment to creating welcoming, high-quality parks for residents and visitors alike. "Our staff, partners and volunteers are passionate about these park spaces and it shows,” said Jeffrey Martin, Zone Superintendent, Parks & Open Spaces. "This recognition demonstrates our commitment to ensuring Calgary's parks continue to be vibrant, accessible and enjoyable places for people to gather, explore and connect."

About the Green Flag Award

Originating in 1996, the Green Flag Award has recognized over 2,000 parks and green spaces in over 15 countries around the world, rewarding well managed parks and green spaces and setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world. Parks are judged across a broad spectrum of criteria with a purpose:

• To ensure that everybody has access to quality green and other open spaces, irrespective of where they live.
• To ensure that these spaces are appropriately managed and meet the needs of the communities that they serve.
• To establish standards of good management.
• To promote and share good practice amongst the green space sector.
• To recognise and reward the hard work of managers, staff and volunteers.

About our winning parks

Reader Rock Garden Historic Park is one of the city's most unique cultural landscapes hosting thousands of different plant species and located in Calgary’s established community of Erlton. First created in 1913, its restoration has earned it an official designation as both a provincial and national historic resource.

Confederation Park was created in 1967 to mark the centennial of Canadian Confederation. This crescent shaped park of more than 160 hectares was once known as "the North Hill Coulee" and includes a wetland section and home to a host of aquatic wildlife and plant species. 

From festivals to film screenings, art exhibitions to dance performances and live music to workshops, there are new opportunities every week to connect, learn and experience Calgary through arts and culture.

"One of the things that makes Calgary Culture Days so special is the element of serendipity," said Olivia Rocskar, Arts & Cultural Development Coordinator with The City of Calgary. "You might come across an event and leave with a new perspective, a new connection or a deeper appreciation for a community, culture or art form. Those moments of curiosity and connection stay with people long after the event is over."

Calgary Culture Days also highlights the important role arts and culture play in Calgary's growth and quality of life.

"Arts and culture are no longer a nice-to-have. They're a need to have," said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. "They connect us to our history, help tell the stories of Indigenous Peoples and the many communities that have shaped Calgary, and reflect who we are today. They are also essential social, civic and economic infrastructure. Arts and culture create connection, foster belonging and help make Calgary the best place to make a life."

Helping share the spirit of the celebration are this year's Calgary Culture Days Cultural Ambassadors. Representing different corners of Calgary's arts and culture sector, ambassadors lend their voices to the celebration while highlighting the value of arts and culture in building a vibrant city. This year’s ambassadors include Mayor Jeromy Farkas; Evelyne Kemajou, Executive Director of Portail de l'Immigrant Association and organizer of Franco Festival Calgary; Marc Stevens, President and CEO of the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra; and Kristy North Peigan, member of the Piikani First Nation and artist and designer.

“People may move to Calgary for a job, but they stay because of the curiosity, creativity, connections and community they discover through arts and culture,” said Marc Stevens. “That can take many forms, from a busker on the street or the wonderful murals across the city, to seeing your favourite artist in concert, going to the theatre or taking a dance lesson. There are countless ways to engage with the arts, and that's what helps turn a city into a place people want to call home."

For the second year, The City of Calgary is supporting community-led programming through the Calgary Culture Days Microgrant, aimed at activating Calgary’s greater downtown with local arts and cultural programming during September. This year, funding was awarded to 20 recipients to help bring new and expanded arts and culture experiences to life throughout September.

Calgary Culture Days takes place Sept. 1-30. Explore events happening across Calgary at calgary.ca/CultureDays. #YYCCultureDays

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The first route in the series, Route 503 Symons Valley Express, begins service today, connecting Sage Hill and surrounding communities with downtown through a direct, limited-stop service. Calgary Transit is also renaming Route 300 Airport/City Centre to Route 500 Airport Express, creating the foundation for a new family of express routes that will expand over time.

"Calgary is growing, and the way people travel is changing," says Sharon Fleming, Director of Calgary Transit. "The new 500-series gives customers the fast, direct service they value while better connecting them to the rest of our transit network. It is a smarter, more flexible approach that helps us serve more people, more efficiently."

The 500-series is part of Calgary Transit’s ongoing work to build a more connected, reliable network in line with RouteAhead, Calgary Transit’s 30-year strategic plan. Unlike traditional express routes, which primarily operated during peak periods and in one direction, the new 500-series model provides two-way service throughout the day, allowing customers to travel to a wider range of destinations when it works for them.

The new express network has been designed to:

• Provide fast, direct travel with limited stops
• Offer more consistent service throughout the day
• Better connect customers to transit hubs and local routes
• Support travel to a wider variety of destinations across Calgary
• Make more effective use of available transit resources

The launch of Route 503 also supports broader improvements made through Calgary Transit’s North Central Transit Service Review. The route creates a direct connection between Sage Hill and downtown while complementing existing services such as MAX Green and local community routes. It also helps maximize previous investments in transit infrastructure along key corridors including Centre Street North.

The 500-series is part of Calgary Transit’s strategy to ensure investments made by Council deliver the greatest benefit for customers. "This is about making the best use of every transit dollar," says Fleming. "The 500-series allows us to deliver the speed and convenience customers want while supporting a network that is more reliable, connected and sustainable for the future."

The performance of Route 503 will help inform future 500-series routes planned for other areas of Calgary as the city continues to grow and travel patterns evolve.

For route information, schedules and trip planning tools, visit calgarytransit.com.

Life is about more than just work and sleep. Having places people can go to relax, socialize, learn and play is a big part of what makes a good city great. As Calgary grows, we're creating more places where people can connect with community, nature, recreation and learning.

"Calgary is growing quickly, and we're investing in both new and improved spaces that respond to that growth," says Ryan Atkinson, Director of Public Spaces Delivery with The City. "Whether it's a park, library, athletic field or community hub, these investments mean more ways for people to connect with each other and their communities." 

More places to play and stay active 

Calgarians will soon have more opportunities to get active, join local sports leagues and enjoy recreation close to home.  

This fall, we’re finishing construction on Rocky Ridge Athletic Park with two new outdoor artificial turf fields. Artificial turf allows the fields to be available earlier and later in the season, while new lighting helps people play later into the evening. Future plans for the site include an indoor fieldhouse.   We’re also beginning work on the Northeast Athletic Complex: a new sport space which will boast four outdoor multisport fields, an indoor fieldhouse, and Calgary’s first cricket pitch designed to host competition at the local, regional and national level. 

Looking forward, GamePLAN has identified more investments in new and renewed recreation infrastructure to help meet Calgary's long-term recreation needs. Funding for these investments will be considered as part of Council's budget process this fall. 

We’re building new places to learn and connect.  

Libraries and community hubs help bring people together. They create welcoming spaces where residents can learn, access services, spend time with neighbours and build community. 

Construction began this year on the Symons Valley Centre Library, a new 15,000 square foot facility including parking and a green space. The new library is part of a larger community hub that will eventually include a transit terminal, housing and shops, bringing a growing community together.  

Construction also continues on the Belmont Fieldhouse and Library: a new community hub featuring a 10,000 square foot public library paired with fieldhouse for year-round sport. When it opens in 2027, it will be a focal point for community activity, where Calgarians in the southwest can meet, read a book, train and play all year round. Future plans include a new recreation facility that will add even more ways for residents to gather and connect.  

More places to relax and enjoy nature 

Parks give people room to breathe, explore and spend time outdoors.  

We’re upgrading Munro Park with new features like a natural play zone, community plaza, a 3-on-3 basketball court, and rainwater-powered gardens that clean water and create habitats for birds, bugs and butterflies. Finally, we’ve moved the Centennial Grove public art and the Richardson Ground Squirrel sculptures from the old Olympic Plaza here, where they can continue to be enjoyed. The upgraded park will reopen in late Fall 2026. 

We’re also creating a new feature section – the Chinese Market Gardens – to the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary that honours the Chinese families who once farmed the land and helped feed Calgary’s growing population. New pathways, native plants and interpretive features will help visitors connect with local history while enjoying one of Calgary’s most loved natural spaces. When complete, this will be a new and beautiful area for people to relax, birdwatch and experience nature.  

"The completion of Stage A microtunneling is a significant step forward for the project," said Darren Finney, Manager, Major Projects. "This complex work involved tunneling beneath major infrastructure, minimizing impacts on the community. With the concrete carrier pipe now in place, we will continue installing the new steel feeder main, preparing for the critical system connection work planned for the Fall."

Stage A construction update

Construction on Stage A of the new Bearspaw South Feeder Main began in January using microtunnelling. This method allows the new feeder main to be installed beneath existing infrastructure with minimal surface disruption. First, a concrete carrier pipe is installed underground and then the new steel feeder main is placed inside it.

Stage A construction has now completed approximately 3.7 kilometres of microtunnelling and the full installation of the concrete carrier pipe between the Shaganappi Pump Station and 73 Street N.W. Installation of the new steel feeder main remains on schedule, with more than two kilometres of pipe now installed inside the carrier pipe.

Stage B construction update

Stage B open-cut construction along 34 Avenue N.W. in Bowness began in June and remains on schedule. More than 1 km of the new steel feeder main has now been installed, with 40% of Stage B feeder main installation now complete. Construction is currently active on three blocks, and four blocks where feeder main installation has been completed have reopened to traffic. Two additional blocks are expected to reopen next week.

Construction is being completed in sections, and roadways, sidewalks and property access are being restored as work advances.

Looking ahead

In mid-October the Bearspaw South Feeder Main will need to be shut down to connect the new feeder main to the existing water system. Work on improving Calgary's drinking water system will begin in September with three phases.

1. Work at the Shaganappi pump station to connect it to the new feeder main is estimated to begin in September. In addition, unrelated work for the new North Calgary Water Servicing feeder main will mean the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant will need to be temporarily shut down in mid-September. There may be a need for temporary outdoor water restrictions, but it will depend on the weather and water demand at that time. Teams are continuing to assess conditions and will make a final decision on restrictions closer to the start of work.
2. Pipe tie-in connections are estimated to begin in mid-October at various locations along the new feeder main pipe and include open-cut construction similar to ongoing Stage B construction. Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions and indoor water conservation will be required during this time.
3. Feeder main commissioning is estimated to begin in mid-November. This will include disinfecting the pipe, filling it with water and taking the existing feeder main out of service. No restrictions are anticipated during this time.

These estimated date ranges are subject to change based on construction timelines and project logistics.

Parkdale Boulevard Repairs

While the feeder main is shut down, The City will complete six additional repairs on the feeder main between the Shaganappi Pump Station and the Memorial Pump Station along Parkdale Boulevard and Memorial Drive N.W.

Recent condition assessments identified six locations on the 1500 mm section of the Bearspaw South Feeder main that require proactive repairs. While the 1500 mm and the 1950 mm pipe, which is currently being replaced, are both part of the same feeder main, they are separate sections with different condition profiles. Assessments of the 1500 mm section show it remains in good overall condition and does not require replacement. Instead, targeted repairs at specific locations will help maintain the pipe's long-term reliability. Completing this work while the feeder main is already out of service for planned connection work is the most efficient approach and helps reduce future risk and disruption.

The repairs will involve 24/7 construction, excavating six locations, removing sections of pipe and replacing them with new steel segments.

Community support

We continue to work directly with residents, businesses and property owners affected by construction and encourage anyone with questions or concerns to reach out.

Community members can visit the project's Community Resource Centre at the Bowness Community Association. Office hours are Monday and Wednesday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday and Thursday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Bearspaw South Feeder Main Construction Liaisons are available at the Community Resource Centre on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

For project information and construction updates, visit calgary.ca/bearspawfeedermain

The tributes that have been created in the days and weeks since Parker's passing reflect the care, compassion and sense of community that many have felt in response to this tragedy.

"We understand the desire to remember Parker and the importance these tributes hold for many people," said Doug Morgan, Chief Operating Officer – City Services. "We recognize that everyone grieves differently and that these memorials were created with heartfelt intentions."

The City manages memorials in accordance with its internal processes and any applicable bylaws.  Temporary memorial items such as flowers, cards and stuffed animals left in parks are typically maintained for a short period before being respectfully removed and, where appropriate, offered to the family. Because these items are exposed to weather and environmental conditions, they can deteriorate over time and create maintenance and safety concerns. Other tributes, if defined as graffiti under The City’s bylaws, are removed in accordance with established processes.

Although Administration understands the intent behind the Parker tributes, they have been removed in accordance with established operating practices. Their removal does not diminish the significance of his memory or the community’s desire to honour him. As stewards of public spaces across Calgary, The City has a responsibility to approach these situations consistently and fairly, while ensuring that everyone affected by this tragedy is treated with compassion, dignity and respect.

Prior to the removal, those most directly affected were notified and expressed no concerns.

While temporary memorials can provide an important outlet for community grief in the immediate aftermath of a loss, permanent memorials offer an enduring way to honour and remember someone over time.

For community members interested in exploring a lasting tribute to Parker, Administration can provide guidance on the appropriate processes and requirements for permanent memorials.

"While the methods used to honour Parker may vary, the compassion and care behind them are clear," said Morgan. "We will continue to approach this situation with respect for those grieving while applying our responsibilities fairly and consistently."

The grief associated with Parker's death continues to be felt across our community. We recognize that reminders of this tragedy may affect people in different ways and encourage anyone who is experiencing emotional distress to seek support. The Calgary Distress Centre provides confidential 24-hour support by phone or text at 403-266-HELP (403-266-4357).

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Passengers can view real-time route detail, route number, requested stops, upcoming stops, and estimated arrival times, as well as service announcements.

“Customers want accurate, consistent and timely information to help them make decisions during their trip,” said Dennis Uvbiama, Manager, Service Vehicles, Calgary Transit. “They also want to know about service changes or disruptions that may affect their journey. These new screens deliver useful information to customers where and when they need it.”  

As part of a pilot project, Calgary Transit has installed new 21- or 29-inch screens on 100 service vehicles. Starting in October 2026, we plan to roll out passenger screens broadly across our 1,000-plus fixed route bus and shuttle fleet, with installation expected to be completed by early 2027.

This enhancement is possible because we’ve modernized the CAD/AVL/APIS (Computer-Aided Dispatch/Automatic Vehicle Location/Advanced Passenger Information) system we use to share real-time vehicle tracking and manage our bus fleet operations. The system integrates dispatching, safety, emergency response, and communication with our Transit Control Centre, helping improve service reliability and trim passenger waiting times.

The upgraded system has also improved bus tracking accuracy in all our customer tools, including Transit, our trip planning app, trip planner on calgarytransit.com, and our older phone-based Teleride and Teletext services.

New CAD/AVL/APIS system features for operators include simplified employee login, turn-by-turn navigation, detailed information about incidents and up-to-date construction detours, and live videos in case of emergencies.

The upgrades include new pedestrian crossings, curb extensions, speed cushions and other traffic-calming measures designed to slow vehicles, improve visibility and reduce risk in areas where students are walking, wheeling and crossing the street.

“These improvements are about creating safer, more comfortable routes for students and their families,” said Traffic Engineer Surendra Mishra. “Whether children are walking to school, riding a bike or arriving with their parents, every improvement helps reduce risk and increases awareness for everyone using the road.”

The work includes proven safety improvement measures such as curb extensions and Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) at schools across Calgary. Curb extensions shorten crossing distances and make pedestrians more visible to approaching drivers. Studies have shown that curb extensions help to reduce collisions by 30-45 per cent. RRFBs improve drivers' yielding compliance to pedestrians resulting in 30-40 per cent collision reduction. When these treatments are combined, safety at an intersection improves dramatically, resulting in 70-80 per cent collision reduction.

In addition to pedestrian-focused improvements, traffic-calming measures have been added near dozens of schools. New speed cushions and speed humps were installed at 17 schools in 2026 to help slow traffic in playground zones and residential areas, encouraging safer driving behaviour where children are most likely to be present. Results have indicated that speed cushions result in an average of 7 km/h speed reduction on a 50 km/h roadway.

This work supports Vision Zero and reflects The City’s continued partnership with the Calgary Police Service to make streets safer and save lives. Together, education, enforcement and street improvements help reduce vehicle speeds, increase driver awareness and create a more predictable environment for everyone.

“With more traffic on the roads this time of year, there is an increase in risk especially to young pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users,” said Calgary Police Service Insp. Robbie Patterson. “Drivers need to be especially vigilant around schools and playground zones. Not only does that mean slowing down, but it also means paying attention to the task at hand and avoiding all distractions including phones or anything else that could take your eyes of the road.”

Parking behaviour is also a key part of playground zone safety. Through the School Patrol Program, Parking Safety and Compliance officers support safer drop-off and pick-up times by educating drivers, encouraging voluntary compliance and addressing unsafe parking behaviours that can reduce visibility or create risk for children and other road users.

“Playground zones are busiest when families are under pressure and that is when safe parking choices matter most,” said Todd Sullivan, Coordinator, Parking Safety and Compliance, Mobility, The City of Calgary. “Through our School Patrol program, our officers are there to educate drivers, answer questions and reinforce the behaviours that keep children visible, including keeping crosswalks, corners, bus zones and no-stopping areas clear. Education comes first, but when unsafe parking puts people at risk, enforcement is one of the ways we help protect students and keep school zones safer for everyone.”

As the school year begins, drivers are reminded to slow down, stay alert and watch for children near schools, playgrounds and residential streets. Parents and caregivers can also help by reviewing safe travel routes with their children and allowing extra time for trips during the busy first weeks of school.

"Back to school means our streets are busier, with more children walking, wheeling and crossing roads every day,” said Jacquelyn Oriold, Safety Education Programs Manager. “The City has made significant investments to improve safety around schools, but infrastructure is only part of the solution. The simple choices we make behind the wheel, such as slowing down, staying focused, parking safely and keeping crossings clear, make a real difference. Kids deserve to get to and from school safely, and their lives are in your hands.”

Through interactive lessons in Social Studies, English and Health, students will engage in discussions and activities that connect classroom learning to real community issues. The program helps students better understand the role Community Peace Officers play in supporting safe communities while encouraging students to consider how they can contribute positively to the city around them.

Teachers participating in the program receive a ready-to-use manual developed by certified educators and Community Peace Officers. The manual includes lesson plans, classroom activities and supporting resources to help teachers deliver the program and prepare students for a culminating classroom visit and mock interview experience with Community Peace Officers. “Beyond the Badge gives students a unique opportunity to connect what they are learning in the classroom to the communities they live in every day,” said Lucy Roy, Community Liaison Officer with Community Standards. “By exploring citizenship, civic responsibility and community safety in an engaging way, students gain a deeper understanding of how they can make a positive contribution to their communities.”

The program was designed to help students build practical skills, collaborate with their peers and develop an understanding of local government and community services. By participating in the program, students learn about citizenship, rights and responsibilities, teamwork and career pathways in public service.

“We want students to see that community safety is a shared responsibility and that everyone has a role to play in creating strong, vibrant neighbourhoods,” said Rajdeep Gill, Community Liaison Officer with Community Standards. “Beyond the Badge provides hands-on learning experiences that encourage students to think critically, work together and explore future career possibilities.”

Beyond the Badge is offered free of charge to Grade 9 classrooms and supports outcomes related to citizenship, life learning choices and collaborative learning. The program helps students understand local bylaws, explore community partnerships and develop skills that support future educational and career transitions.

Teachers can access program resources and learn more about participation through the Beyond the Badge webpage. Teachers will have access to the teacher manual online, allowing them to review lesson plans and program materials before booking the culminating officer visit.

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Storm ponds are part of The City of Calgary’s stormwater infrastructure and are in many communities across the city. They are marked by caution signs following the perimeter of the pond, reminding people that going into or onto storm ponds is strictly prohibited.

Safety enhancements will include replacing old caution signage with new signage, installing new interpretive signage to increase awareness of risks, and increasing thorny and dense vegetation to create a barrier to the storm pond. Permanent partial fencing and temporary seasonal fencing will also aid in creating a physical barrier to public access. Storm ponds have been assessed to determine what safety measures will be applied at each pond.

Ongoing field assessments will continue to identify additional storm ponds that require safety enhancements. Current storm pond safety work can be viewed on the storm pond map available on calgary.ca/stormponds.

Storm pond safety is a priority for The City of Calgary with a focus on educating the public and creating awareness that recreational activities on storm ponds year-round are prohibited in accordance with the City Stormwater Bylaw.

It is important to remember that where there’s water, there’s risk; the importance of safety around storm ponds or any bodies of water cannot be understated. Stormwater ponds are working stormwater facilities, not recreational areas. Stay safe, stay off storm ponds.

For more information on safety around storm ponds, visit calgary.ca/stormpondsafety.

What to do if you see someone in trouble in the water

• Call for help and call 911.
• Throw them something to hang onto that floats.
• Reach out to them with something they can grip and pull them back to the edge, if you can do so safely.
• If you cannot reach them, keep them in your sights and memorize the location and a description of their clothing.
• Make sure that they receive medical attention for injuries, even if there are no apparent wounds.
• DO NOT enter the water unless you are trained in water rescue. 

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“This is an achievement owned by Calgarians who stepped up, utilizing incentives that resulted in thousands of new housing options in our city,” says Josh Howes, Suites Manager, Development, Business and Building Services. “Giving renters confidence that their home has been reviewed and approved by The City is an important outcome, as all Calgarians deserve to feel safe in their home.”

The incentive program, which provided qualified homeowners up to $10,000 to cover a portion of construction costs, significantly contributed to the expansion of safe housing in Calgary, doubling the number of suites on the Secondary Suite Registry from 13,000 in 2024 to 26,000 today.

“We started with just 431 registered suites in 2015. Today, new registered secondary suites represent a quarter of all new units added in Calgary over the past three years. That growth shows homeowners are choosing to meet safety standards, complete inspections and provide renters with a suite that is legal and safe,” says Cliff De Jong, Manager of Programs and Services, Development, Business and Building Services.

The Secondary Suite Incentive Program is part of Home is Here, The City of Calgary’s Housing Strategy.

“At less than $10,000 per door, this program has been the most efficient and cost-effective way to create thousands of new homes across Calgary,” says Reid Hendry, Chief Housing Officer. “By helping homeowners add safe, legal secondary suites, we’ve vastly increased the supply of market-affordable rental homes in established communities where people already have access to services and amenities."

Corey Hogan, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Calgary Confederation, says: “Canadians need more housing options and secondary suites are a way communities can add homes more quickly while making better use of existing neighbourhood infrastructure. Through the Housing Accelerator Fund, the federal government is supporting initiatives that help increase housing supply. The results of Calgary’s Secondary Suite Incentive Program demonstrate the role these local solutions can play in addressing housing needs.” 

While the Secondary Suite Incentive Program applications are wrapping up, homeowners under review are still in line to receive funding. The waitlist remains open until applications are reviewed, and all funding is disbursed.

The Amnesty Program remains open until December 2026. Owners of suites constructed prior to March 2018 must ensure their existing suites meet the minimum life safety requirements.

Renters searching for a safe, legal suite can look for The City’s official Registered Secondary Suite sticker in the window and visit the Secondary Suite Registry.

Background:

• 50 per cent of suites added to the Secondary Suite Registry in Calgary were incentivized through this program.
• Approximately 7,000 secondary suites will have benefited directly from the incentive program (once all contracts are fulfilled and money handed out in mid-to-late 2027).
• The Secondary Suite Registry will grow to 30,000 suites by 2027.

The project acceleration MOU establishes a framework for the three organizations to jointly assess the commercial, technical, and financial feasibility of the public off-site infrastructure required to enable future development. Today’s MOU builds upon an early-stage project development MOU signed by the same three parties in early 2025, which set out to explore the CIB’s potential participation in the Gateway project. The new agreement moves the work into a more detailed due diligence phase focused on the infrastructure, financing and delivery considerations needed before construction decisions can be made.

For residents of the Calgary region, the agreement represents another step toward building the infrastructure needed to support future jobs, attract private investment and reinforce the region’s role as a connected, competitive, resilient economic hub. By helping address transportation and servicing constraints around a proposed rail-anchored inland port east of Calgary in Rocky View County, Gateway is intended to support new industrial growth while strengthening the regional supply chains that businesses and households rely on every day.

Prairie Economic Gateway is envisioned as a rail-anchored inland port and multimodal logistics hub located east of Calgary in Rocky View County, Alberta, within Canada’s Prairie Core Trade Corridor on the CPKC mainline. Led by The City of Calgary and Rocky View County in partnership with private-sector rail and development partners, Gateway is intended to expand trade-enabling infrastructure capacity, address first-mile and last-mile constraints, increase economic benefit through trade, improve the reliability and resilience of supply chains and support increased trade diversification.

Quotes

“This agreement with the Canada Infrastructure Bank is an important step toward finalizing the infrastructure investments needed to unlock new trade, logistics and industrial development, create jobs and strengthen Calgary’s competitiveness. By working with our regional partners and the Canada Infrastructure Bank, we are building the foundation for sustainable long-term growth that benefits residents, businesses and the broader regional economy.” – Mayor Jeromy Farkas, City of Calgary

“Prairie Economic Gateway is a generational opportunity to attract investment, create jobs and strengthen Rocky View County’s position as a trade and transportation hub. This MOU reflects our strong partnership with The City of Calgary and our shared commitment to responsible planning and investment. The Canada Infrastructure Bank’s expertise will help us assess the infrastructure needs and financing options required to bring this vision to life.” – Reeve Sunny Samra, Rocky View County

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About Prairie Economic Gateway

Prairie Economic Gateway is a regionally approved, shovel-ready collaboration between The City of Calgary and Rocky View County to enable rail-served industrial development and economic diversification in the Calgary region.

Gateway is envisioned as the centre of a future inland port supported by private sector investment. By extending trade infrastructure capacity beyond Canada’s congested seaports and into the Prairies, the project is intended to strengthen national supply chains, open new opportunities for industrial development, and support long-term economic growth in Alberta and across Canada.

About the Canada Infrastructure Bank

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) is an impact investor developing the next generation of infrastructure Canadians need.  The goal of CIB’s investments is to use public capital to accelerate projects which are in the public interest, attract private investment and deliver measurable economic and social outcomes for Canadians.

Media Contacts

Rocky View County
Janine Workman
jworkman@rockyview.ca
403-371-8606 

Canada Infrastructure Bank
media@cib-bic.ca

The application includes an update to the franchise fee rate to meet Council’s 2027 franchise fee revenue target, and (at the request of ATCO Gas) extends the use of the existing franchise fee methodology that uses a fixed reference price for an additional year.

The franchise agreement grants ATCO Gas the right to provide natural gas distribution service in Calgary. The agreement authorizes ATCO Gas to collect a franchise fee from customers in Calgary and remit the fees to The City in lieu of property tax. Franchise fees make up a small percentage of utility bills. They are an important factor in supporting The City’s operating budget and they help fund the services Calgarians rely on, keeping property taxes low.

In May 2026, Council directed Administration to collect $98.2 million in revenue from the natural gas franchise fee in 2027, up from a target of $71.6 million in 2026. To obtain the revenue target, the current fixed monthly gas cost price used in the franchise fee calculation will be increased.

Currently, franchise fees are calculated using a percentage of a fixed monthly gas cost price of $3.15 per gigajoule (GJ) of gas consumed. The amendment will change the fixed rate to $5.67/GJ effective January 1, 2027. For the average residential consumer, the monthly franchise fee is estimated to be approximately $10.90 per month in 2027, an increase of about $2.45 per month.

The next step for ATCO Gas, on behalf of The City, is to apply to the AUC for approval of this new franchise fee agreement, including the franchise fee rate, by September 21, 2026.

For more information on franchise fees and to provide feedback on the changes we’re making, visit calgary.ca/FranchiseFeeUpdate.

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