Calgary

The meeting provided an update regarding urgent repairs on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main and the associated impacts on Citywide Water Service. Due to further testing revealing new repair locations, Stage Four outdoor water restrictions were implemented starting the day after the update (Tuesday) and continuing through the end of September. During this period, the system will rely primarily on the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant, necessitating a collective reduction in water use to a target of 450 million liters daily to avoid depletion of underground storage reservoirs, which could lead to a Citywide boil water advisory. Key conservation measures requested include limiting indoor water use by 25% (e.g., shorter showers, full loads for laundry/dishwashers) and ceasing outdoor water use. The update also mentioned that nonpotable water will be available for pickup at designated locations for residents and businesses. The repair work itself is planned and systematic, involving excavation, pipe exposure, and concrete curing, rather than immediate replacement of the pipe segment.

This document, titled "Roadmap to Reinvention - The Future of Calgary's Downtown," outlines a strategic plan for Calgary's downtown economic recovery and long-term vitality. It aims to transform the downtown from a traditional 9-5 business district into a vibrant, 24/7 city center that attracts residents, visitors, and businesses. The plan focuses on five strategic moves: creating mixed-use neighborhoods with diverse housing and amenities; developing a green network connecting parks, natural spaces, and river frontage; designing pedestrian and cyclist-friendly streets with enhanced mobility options; improving public transit for efficient travel; and attracting the global technology and innovation sector by leveraging the city's skilled workforce and corporate presence. The overarching goal is to foster a resilient and thriving downtown that benefits all Calgarians.

The Green Line Town Hall provided an update on the stage one alignment, including recommended changes in segment two, specifically the downtown area from 16th Ave in the north to the Elbow River. The session covered the Green Line vision, delivery of stage one, and reasons for alignment updates. Discussions included surface running LRT, potential addition of a ninth Avenue Station, LRT positioning, left turn considerations, and BRT priority improvements. Bridge options over the Bow River were also explored.

The Calgary Plan focuses on guiding the city's implementation through collaborative planning with communities, industry, Indigenous groups, and other government levels. It prioritizes public engagement, relationship-building with Indigenous peoples, and working with provincial and federal entities. The plan streamlines existing direction from the Municipal Development Plan (MDP) and the Calgary Transportation Plan (CTP), ensuring growth is monitored effectively and land is allocated appropriately for parks, schools, and natural areas. It also addresses oil and gas infrastructure, agricultural protection, and airport vicinity protection. The plan will be revisited and updated within 10 years, with progress tracked using influencing and monitoring indicators.

The Calgary Plan focuses on accommodating growth through balanced and sustainable development, protecting natural areas, and expanding housing choices. It prioritizes equity and inclusion, Truth and Reconciliation, and climate resilience. Key directions include building around transit, strengthening the downtown, and creating inclusive, resilient, and healthy communities, with an emphasis on quality design outcomes and connecting mobility networks to support a vibrant and prosperous city for all Calgarians.