January 30, 2008Cheque PresentationCalgary - Mayor Dave Bronconnier today accepted two cheques from Premier Ed Stelmach and Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister Ray Danyluk, one representing the first payment under the 10-year Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) funding program, and the other to cover the Province's 2007 affordable housing contribution.The MSI infrastructure grant was for $90 million while the cheque relating to affordable housing was in the amount of $63 million. Over the next four years, these annual grants will ramp up to $1.4 billion per year. Bronconnier said that over the 10-year life of the program, approximately $3.3 billion in new funding will come to Calgary, to be used to pay for at least some of the infrastructure and facilities our growing community needs. "These funds will allow us to build the competitive communities that will ensure our province's future prosperity," Mayor Bronconnier said. City Council has already approved investing the MSI funds major expansion and enhancements to both Calgary's public transit system, and The City's sports and recreation facilities. The new funds will be invested to begin work on the long-awaited west leg of the LRT, to extend the northeast LRT line to Saddleridge, the northwest line to Rocky Ridge/Tuscany, and to purchase 34 more Ctrain cars. The City is also planning three more recreation centres, including libraries, one in each of the northeast, southeast and northwest quadrants. Seven more ice rinks and four tournament-standard soccer fields will be built with MSI funds. Bronconnier said the affordable housing funds represent a significant commitment from the Province that acknowledges the responsibility of all orders of government to solve the increasing housing problems faced by growth-stressed municipalities, including Calgary. City Council has adopted a "shared responsibility" strategy for creating more affordable housing. The Enterprise Housing Program, approved in principle by Council on Nov. 26, 2007, is a partnership of the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, formed to encourage the development of 2,000 units of affordable housing over the next five years. Calgary's housing strategy is a mix of various initiatives, including the building of new affordable housing projects; buying and renovating existing properties; providing financial assistance to homeowners to build secondary suites for low income rental, or bringing existing "illegal" suites up to code; and providing transitional housing through rent supplement programs. "This mix of initiatives will enable The City to bring more affordable housing units to the market quickly, in some cases, virtually immediately," added Bronconnier. Media enquiries may be directed to: Marc Henry Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (403) 268-8125 (office) marc.henry@calgary.ca (Blackberry) January 28, 2008Mayor Urges Investment in Cities for Canadian Competitiveness(Calgary) – Thriving cities are the foundation of Canadian competitiveness in the global economy, and they need investment by all orders of government to drive investment and to attract skilled workers in the future. This message was the foundation of Mayor Dave Bronconnier's submission to the Federal Competition Policy Review Panel this morning.The Mayor outlined the need for investment in municipal infrastructure such as Transit, protective services, affordable housing and the arts, and a need for a national labour-force strategy. Bronconnier noted that many of these objectives can be accomplished by municipalities themselves, provided senior orders of government are prepared to re-balance fiscal resources between themselves and municipalities. Bronconnier said, "The future of Canada's competitiveness will be determined in large part by the health of major urban centres. We're competing for global investment dollars and for skilled people – great cities attract both – and that's the standard we need to set for ourselves as a nation." The federal Competition Policy Review Panel was formed in July 2007, following a pledge in the 2007 Federal Budget to review Canada's competition policies and its framework for foreign investment policy. Members of the Panel include: Lynton Ronald "Red" Wilson, O.C. (Chair); Isabelle Hudon; P. Thomas Jenkins; Brian Levitt, and; N. Murray Edwards. The Panel is targeting a report to the Minister of Industry and the Government of Canada by June 30, 2008. Media enquiries may be directed to: Marc Henry Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (403) 268-8125 (office) marc.henry@calgary.ca (Blackberry) January 28, 2008Calgary's New Record of $5.6B in Construction(Calgary) – The City of Calgary has posted its seventh consecutive record year of construction value growth, with 2007 building permit values totaling 5.6 billion dollars, up 18.1 per cent from 2006."The record construction values we saw in 2007 nearly double those of 2004 – just three short years ago and a record at the time," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "Strong growth is overwhelmingly positive for our community, but it requires us to assess our approach to development. It is a balance between accommodating growth with the need to build a strong and sustainable community. We need to ensure that our scarce municipal infrastructure dollars are being invested as wisely as we can to provide a high standard of service to our new industrial, commercial and residential development. We have to simultaneously build for growth and live within our means." Led by growth in non-residential development, major projects for the year reveal a healthy mix of public and private sector investment situated both downtown and across the city including The Bow ($645 million – office), Chinook Centre Expansion ($148 million – Shopping Centre), WestJet Campus ($80 million – office), Louise Station ($61 million affordable housing apartment), South Health Campus ($36 million – hospital) and the Richmond Road Diagnostic & Treatment centre ($35 million – hospital). The share of non-residential building permit values increased for the third consecutive year, representing 55 per cent of the total 5.6 billion in construction values for 2007. This compares to a 50-50 split between residential and non-residential values in 2006 and a seven-year share (2000-2006) for non-residential building permit values of 43 per cent. The proportion of multi-family to single family residential units reveals a trend toward multi-family construction, with 58 per cent of the total 12,937 new residential units in 2007 being multi-family. This compares to a 50-50 split in 2006 and a seven-year-average (2000-2006) of 43 per cent multi-family. The number of new multi-family residential units for 2007 remained strong at 7,476, a slight decrease over the previous year (8,034), but markedly ahead of the seven-year average (2000-2006) of 5,511. The 12,937 new residential units approved for 2007 is in line with the seven-year average (2000-2006) of 12,791 although down from 15,971 in 2006, the result of a decrease in single family construction. Media enquiries may be directed to: Marc Henry Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (403) 268-8125 (office) marc.henry@calgary.ca (Blackberry) January 15, 2008Mayor Bronconnier Joins "Team Alberta" Mission to Washington D.C.(Calgary) – Mayor Dave Bronconnier will be joining Premier Stelmach on his first international mission to Washington D.C. later this week January 16-17, 2008.The two day trade mission includes several business sessions and meetings with American Congressmen, Senators and business leaders. The Mayor has been asked to make a presentation on Calgary's economy at a session on January 17, 2008. The Mayor will also take part in a reception hosted by the Canadian Ambassador to United States Michael Wilson to install Gary Mar as a new Alberta Minister Councilor in Washington D.C. Commenting on the mission, Bronconnier said, "Calgary's economy has been attracting American attention for a long time. Having strong relations with our American neighbours and promoting our city south of the border is an important part of our economic development plans. Joining the Premier on this mission provides an excellent opportunity to reinforce Calgary's business and political presence among decision-makers in the United States. " In addition to trade mission activities the Mayor will also be learning about successful affordable housing projects during the meetings with Washington D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty and senior members of his administration. The Mayor will be joined by Bruce Graham, President of Calgary Economic Development, to meet with CEOs of Washington D.C. promotional authorities to learn about their recently launched branding and international promotional campaign. Cost of the Mayor's travel for the mission are estimated to be approximately $10,000. Media enquiries may be directed to: Marc Henry Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (403) 268-8125 (office) marc.henry@calgary.ca (Blackberry) January 9, 2008Economic Development Plan Charts Course to Prosperous Future(Calgary) – Investing in people, innovation and leveraging our existing economic strength will ensure that Calgarians will enjoy prosperity well into the future, according to the new 10-year Economic Development Strategy presented to a City Council Standing Policy Committee today. The Strategy which outlines a 10-year guide to fostering a strong community and economy for Calgary identifies three key goals for future growth:
The Mayor noted, "Today we enjoy the strongest economy in Canada and one of the strongest in the world. Ensuring that prosperity in the future means making strategic investments in our community which will keep us a competitive and attractive place for business and people." Development of the Strategy was initiated by Mayor Bronconnier and led by a 17-member Steering Team, comprised of individuals from private sector, senior levels of government and the four City-funded economic development agencies (Calgary Economic Development; Tourism Calgary; Calgary Technologies Inc.; and the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre). The Strategy makes a powerful statement on the direction for the city, setting out a plan for the sustainable, equitable and manageable growth of Calgary's economy to 2018. "This strategy clearly describes our citizens' desires, aspirations and a common vision for Calgary's future," said Mauro Meneghetti, Steering Team Chair. "Throughout the process, the team listened to hundreds of Calgarians from the business community, all levels of government, educational institutions and many other organizations. This Strategy strives to set Calgary's unique direction in the increasingly competitive global economy." "The strategy is unique in that the primary focus is on people, which is an innovative and fresh approach in terms of economic development", said Adam Legge, Director of Research and Business Information, Calgary Economic Development and the Strategy's Project Manager. Media enquiries may be directed to: Marc Henry Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (403) 268-5622 (office) marc.henry@calgary.ca (Blackberry) Luiza Zorrilla Director of Marketing and Communications Calgary Economic Development (403) 880 7040 luiza@calgatryeconomicdevelopement.com
February 27, 2008Calgary Unveils Host City Celebrations Planned for 2008 JUNO Awards(Calgary) - Calgary's Host City celebrations for the 2008 JUNO Awards were unveiled at a press conference today. "Calgary. Music Lives Here" will serve as the host city theme throughout the Juno celebrations and three major events will set the stage for the 2008 JUNO Awards, including and a March Music Series with live music events and activities in Calgary and area schools, and two Juno Weekend Kick-off events to be held on Thursday, April 3 featuring top Canadian rock and country acts."A tremendous amount of work has gone into Calgary's preparations for the 2008 JUNO Awards," said Terry Rock, President & CEO of Calgary Arts Development and Host Committee Co-chair. "With over 150 live music events in March to a huge free public concert on Olympic Plaza featuring top Canadian acts like Finger Eleven, Sloan and Bedouin Soundclash to a country music showcase with Juno Award winning Alberta stars like George Canyon and Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Calgary is ready to set the stage for the 2008 JUNO Awards." Mayor Dave Bronconnier was also on hand to make a very special announcement. "I'm delighted to proclaim March as "Music Lives Here Month" in Calgary," Mayor Bronconnier said. "In just over a month Calgary will play host to Canada's premiere music and entertainment event. The March Music Series will celebrate Calgary's vibrant music scene and show our citizens the strength of local music and events – the perfect opening act for a weekend-long celebration of local and Canadian music during Juno Awards Weekend." Marco De Iaco, Director of Sport and Major Events for Tourism Calgary and co-chair for the Calgary Host Committee also added, "The JUNO Awards and all of the host committee's "Calgary. Music Lives Here" events will engage Calgarians in a celebration of Canadian music, bring thousands of visitors into our city, and contribute $7 to $10 million to our local economy. It is a prime opportunity to showcase our city's diverse music scene and promote Calgary as a world-class host for major events." For more details please contact the Calgary Host Committee communications team: Erica Mattson Director of Marketing & Communications Calgary Arts Development Phone: (403) 978-2787 E-mail: erica.mattson@calgaryartsdevelopment.com Lynn Byrgesen Manager, Communications Tourism Calgary Phone: (403) 750-2381 E-mail: lynnb@tourismcalgary.com To arrange an Interview with Mayor Bronconnier, please contact Marc Henry at Mayor's Office by calling (403) 268-5622 or e-mailing marc.henry@calgary.ca. February 27, 2008Mayor Bronconnier Leads Government and Business Trade Mission to the Middle East(Calgary) - Mayor Dave Bronconnier will lead representatives of government organizations and close to 20 representatives of Calgary's business community to the Middle East in the first week of March 2008.The trade mission builds on relationships initiated in the last years due to the Calgary's dynamic economic growth and attention our city receives around the world. Members of the delegation include Gary Holden, President and CEO of ENMAX, John Masters, President and CEO of Calgary Technologies Inc., Daryl Fridhandler, Chairman of Calgary Economic Development, Bruce Graham, President and CEO of the Calgary Economic Development, Julien DeSchutter, Vice President of Calgary Airport Authority and David Watson, General Manager of Planning and Assessment at The City of Calgary. The 5 day long program includes meetings with senior officials from government, post secondary education, energy, airlines, and real estate development in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Qatar. The mission is in response to a personal invitation extended to Mayor Bronconnier by His Highness Sheikh Diab bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, brother of the Crown Prince of the United Arab Emirates and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority, whose subsidiary offices of TAQA have recently significantly invested in Calgary energy companies". "This mission is another important step forward for Calgary to promote itself in the Middle East as a premium destination for investment and business partnerships across energy, education and infrastructure sectors. There is enormous interest in Calgary and through relations built on this mission we expect to see more Middle Eastern companies doing business in Calgary" – says Mayor Bronconnier. Media enquiries may be directed to: Marc Henry Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (403) 268-8125 (office) marc.henry@calgary.ca (Blackberry) February 19, 2008Council Approves Major Investment in Protective Services(Calgary) - The City of Calgary is moving forward with an unprecedented investment in protective services infrastructure.City Council voted unanimously today to dedicate $330 million of Municipal Sustainability Initiative funding for priority protective services capital needs. From this, $50 million in immediate "top-up" funding has been approved to ensure previously identified priority projects get underway. These include tri-services centres at Saddleridge and Royal Oak, the Emergency Operations Centre, downtown stations for EMS and Fire, and the North Services Police Station. In addition, Council approved a motion asking for the Mayor to bring forward a financial sustainability report for protective services infrastructure which identifies long-term strategies for the funding of these crucial city facilities. The report, which will come forward later this spring, will assess the viability of private financing initiatives for large-scale infrastructure projects, municipal bonds, dedicated taxes and other means of providing sustainable and predictable capital funding for protective services. Mayor Dave Bronconnier put forward the motion to City Council, noting, "The safety of our community is our top priority. Our decision today ensures that we will address our immediate needs, along with implementing the long-term planning and funding necessary for the future of our city." In addition to investing in police, fire and EMS, at today’s meeting City Council earmarked $165 million of MSI funding for potential arts and cultural facilities. A report Calgary Arts Development (CADA) is expected to be presented for Council’s consideration later this year. Media enquiries may be directed to: Marc Henry Chief of Staff - Office of the Mayor (403) 268-8125 (office) marc.henry@calgary.ca (Blackberry) April 29, 2008New Officers Enhance Safety in Centre CityBylaw Officers to Work Closely With Calgary Police Service(Calgary) - More eyes and ears are on Calgary's centre city streets and neighbourhoods today with the deployment of more Peace Officers from Animal and Bylaw Services. Today also marks the start of a new role for Bylaw Officers in The City of Calgary. 25 more officers have joined the ranks of those patrolling in the centre city and will work alongside The City's other uniformed services as part of the public safety team. "We are responding to the request of our citizens to bring more resources into the downtown to enhance safety and make the area more welcoming for those who live and work here and for our visitors," said Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "These officers bring more visibility to the centre city in terms of a uniformed presence to deter criminal and unacceptable behaviour as well as being in place to act when that behaviour occurs." Bill Bruce, Director of The City of Calgary's Animal and Bylaw Services said downtown bylaw officers, who are sworn as Peace Officers, will work alongside their colleagues in the Calgary Police Service. "We are providing more resources to ensure our team is in the right place at the right time," said Bruce. "Having the additional officers allows us to strengthen our presence in the centre city while still having the personnel we need to do our job throughout the city." The new downtown officers will also work on education and enforcement in areas of litter, graffiti, pathway safety, panhandling and the public behaviour bylaw. They will patrol 7 days a week in vehicles, on foot and on bicycles throughout the centre city including along the rivers and in parks. "Our public safety team is finding new ways to collaborate to bring together the resources needed to make the centre city, and the entire community a safe and vibrant place for everyone to enjoy," said Bronconnier. The City's public safety team comprises Animal & Bylaw Services, the Calgary Police Service, Emergency Medical Services, the Calgary Fire Department, the Public Safety Communications centre and Calgary Transit.
Roger Matas
April 10, 2008HMCS Calgary Bid "Safe Journey" for Middle East Mission(Calgary) - As the crew of HMCS CALGARY depart for the Middle East, Mayor Dave Bronconnier will be on hand at the Naval Base Esquimalt, B.C. to extend greetings and best wishes for their upcoming mission. The Mayor will be joined by two members of City Council, Aldermen Colley-Urquhart and Stevenson, and will be taking part in official departure proceedings and meeting with the 250 ship's crew and their families.The Mayor said, "We have an a strong bond of affection with our naval namesake, and we want the brave men and women aboard CALGARY and their families back home to know the enormous pride we hold for them. We wish our crew Godspeed and safe passage, and we're looking forward to their return once this important mission is complete in September." On Sunday when the CALGARY departs, she will be one of three Canadian warships taking part in Combined Task Force 150, a naval coalition task force being led by Canada and operating in the Middle East from June until September. The Taskforce includes three Canadian Warships and more than 900 sailors, soldiers and airmen and airwomen. On behalf of The City of Calgary, the Mayor will also be presenting HMCS CALGARY with some special gifts for their current and on-going missions. These gifts include televisions, furniture and posters, computer and satellite equipment, and video-gaming equipment and games for the crew's off-duty entertainment. These gifts were made possible thanks to the kind generosity of the following corporate citizens: Calgary Marriot, Hyatt and Palliser Hotels; McCrum's Office Furnishings; Microsoft Canada; Nintendo of Canada Ltd., Sony Entertainment Canada; EB Games; The Calgary Stampede and Shaw Communications. The Mayor thanked all of these corporate donors for their dedication to the men and women who serve, noting "Life aboard a naval vessel is a tremendous sacrifice. Calgary wanted our crew to have a few upgrades for their off-duty hours at sea – something to make their tour of duty more comfortable and to remind them of the love and support they have back here at home." The Mayor will be traveling to the base on Saturday morning and returning to Calgary following the farewell ceremony on Sunday. His travel expenses for the trip are expected to be approximately $950. Marc Henry Chief of Staff to Mayor Bronconnier Calgary Arts Development Phone: (403) 268-8125 marc.henry@calgary.ca May 15, 2008Portrait Gallery of Canada Bid
Portrait Gallery of Canada Backgrounder
(PDF - 599 KB) Location and Collaborative Effort Makes Calgary's Bid for Portrait Gallery of Canada the Strongest, Says Mayor(Calgary) - Mayor Dave Bronconnier called The City's bid to bring the Portrait Gallery of Canada to Calgary the strongest, based on the intended location on the northwest corner of Olympic Plaza. "The Portrait Gallery of Canada needs a prominent home that reflects the national significance and stature of a new cultural institution," says Mayor Bronconnier. "At the heart of Calgary's cultural district, the Olympic Plaza is an ideal location that we believe will make our bid the strongest." Mayor Bronconnier made his comments while signing off on the official bid package that is now making its way to the nation's capital where it will be compete against Edmonton and Ottawa. The Mayor also cited choosing to collaborate with Plenary Group as a major contribution to the strength of the bid. Plenary Group is an independent public-private partnership business whose sole focus is the P3 development of government-related institutions. The company is prepared to assume responsibility to design, build, finance and operate the Gallery on the Olympic Plaza site. "The Portrait Gallery of Canada is expected to become a major cultural destination for residents and visitors. As the epicenter of celebrations where medal ceremonies took place during the Calgary Olympics, the Plaza is one of Canada's best-known public spaces," says Mayor Bronconnier. "With its location adjacent to the Stephen Avenue National Historic District, nearby hotels, cafes and shops and surrounded by major transit routes where tens of thousands of people have easy access to Olympic Plaza on a daily basis, there's no better place for the Portrait Gallery to be housed." The submission deadline is May 16. Bids will be reviewed over the next 90 days by Public Works and Government Services Canada. For more information, please contact:
Marc Henry
June 24, 2008Bronconnier Invites US Mayors to Calgary to Get Facts on OilsandsCALGARY — Mayor Dave Bronconnier today extended an invitation for a delegation of US Mayors to visit Calgary and get the facts on oilsands production. Bronconnier’s invitation came as he expressed his disappointment with a resolution passed yesterday by the United States Conference of Mayors calling on U.S. jurisdictions to ban the use of unconventional or synthetic fuels, like those produced in Alberta’s oil sands, in government fleets.
Letter to Mayor Diaz of Miami (PDF - 160 KB)
"Reducing Greenhouse Gas is an important issue, but it requires a comprehensive, thoughtful and realistic approach" said the Mayor, "This resolution suggests a lack of understanding, and we hope that by extending this invitation, we can help set the record straight." Bronconnier said he wished that his counterparts in the United States would have focused more attention on the need to promote energy efficiency, conservation and the adoption of new "green" technologies. "Alberta has made a significant investment in environmentally forward-thinking technology - CO2 sequestration, gasified coal, coal-bed methane, and the commercialization of existing technologies like solar and wind energy. These are initiatives that are being driven by government, industry and our educational institutions. We recognize that conventional oil and gas will be playing a smaller and smaller role in the energy industry of the future." Calgary’s Mayor noted, "Demand for energy continues to grow, and the days of inexpensive, easy to find oil are over. We can pass all the "feel good" resolutions that we want, but the reality of the situation is that production from the oilsands is necessary. The challenge from an environmental perspective will be to use that resource as efficiently as we can, and reduce our reliance on petroleum through conservation and new technologies."
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: June 19, 2008Mayor Announces Arena Construction at FLC to Address Critical City ShortageCALGARY — As we celebrate 25 years in the community, Family Leisure Centre is pleased to announce that we are now ready to begin construction on our new arena, with $17,830,000 of the required 19.5 million dollars of funding in place. At the end of 2006 the City of Calgary released an Arena Report confirming a severe shortage of arenas in the city, with the largest shortfall in southeast Calgary, long considered to be the city’s fastest growing quadrant. FLC’s new arena will go a long way to address this shortage. Due to the success of our Building for Their Future Campaign, construction will commence this summer and be completed by October of 2009. In addition to twinning FLC’s arena, this joint campaign effort between FLC and the Bow Valley Hockey Society (BVHS) will undertake a number of key enhancements to improve access and overall use of the facility. To date, the campaign has reached 90% of its goal with a generous contribution of $9.5 million from the City of Calgary and significant funding from the Province of Alberta. "We extend our sincere gratitude to all of the donors, sponsors and corporate partners who have helped us reach our goal. So far we have secured sponsorships from a variety of corporate donors totaling $830,000," says Dan Henes, Co-chairman of the Building for Their Future Campaign, "and we are close to securing other corporate donors." Throughout the effort to raise support for this important initiative, Mayor Dave Bronconnier has been very supportive. "For a quarter century, Family Leisure Centre has done an outstanding job delivering sports and recreation to our growing community. It’s an important partnership, and one that The City of Calgary is very proud to be part of. Congratulations to the staff and volunteers on a great job fundraising for this expansion," comments Mayor Bronconnier. Today, we are pleased to announce an additional $300,000 has been donated by Southcentre Mall to help bring the Building for Their Future thermometer almost to the top! "Southcentre strongly believes that all families should have access to ice rinks. We are proud to help create new ways to enjoy our community through our sponsorship of the Southcentre Arena at the Trico Centre for Family Wellness," says Shawn Hanson, Southcentre General Manager.
Trico Homes’ commitment of $1.5 million over 10 years will culminate in our renaming to Trico Centre for Family Wellness, to be made official on October 1st, 2008. "We are very pleased to partner with the Family Leisure Centre and this community-driven campaign. It is an excellent fit with our vision to enrich the community through health and wellness initiatives, and we are proud to have our name associated with such an excellent facility and organization," says Richard Gotfried, Vice President Corporate Communications for Trico Homes. For media interviews and inquiries, please contact:
Jack Redekop, President
Richard Gotfried, Vice President
Brenda Smith, General Manager
Dan Henes, Co-Chairman June 18, 2008New Ice Arena Welcome News for Everyone, Especially Those Whose Kids Have Hockey Practices at 7 am on Sundays!CALGARY — Construction is set to begin on a major new sports arena associated with the Family Leisure Centre complex in southeast Calgary. The project, which includes twinning and upgrading the existing arena, will provide another additional much-needed ice surface for the 230,000 people who live in the area, many of whom are young families with hockey-playing kids. In 2006, The City identified an urgent need for more ice rinks in Calgary, particularly in the southeast, one of the fastest-growing quadrants in our fast-growing community. The shortage of rinks made it difficult to get ice time at a reasonable hour, or within a reasonable distance from home. Council responded by approving the investment of some $300 million in Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) funds in the construction, expansion and upgrading of sports and recreation facilities throughout Calgary. Besides the new FLC arena in the southeast, more ice surfaces will be provided, four at Canada Olympic Park, and two or the South Fish Creek Recreation Association. The new FLC arena, expected to cost $19.5 million, is being built as a partnership of The City of Calgary, 20 community associations, and a number of organized sports groups. Significant funding support has also been provided by the Province, Southcentre Mall, Trico Homes, and other private sector donors and sponsors. It will be ‘shovels in the ground’ on the new arena later this summer, with completion scheduled for October, 2009. Just in time for hockey season. June 9, 2008Final Alignment Gets ApprovedWest leg of LRT gets the nod from City Council.
West LRT Alignment Assessment (PDF - 334 KB)
West LRT Project Status Report (PDF - 28 KB) West LRT Map (PDF - 517 KB) (Calgary) - After many months of reviewing alternative alignments and community consultations, council approved the final alignment of the West LRT at the June 9th 2008 combined meeting of Council. June 6, 2008The Government of Canada and The City of Calgary Invest in InfrastructureThe importance of international trade to Calgary's economy is marked in an announcement made today by Minister Prentice and Mayor Bronconnier. CALGARY — The Government of Canada and The City of Calgary today announced that, as part of the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative (APGCI), the federal government will provide up to $34.5 million to widen 52nd Street S.E. in Calgary from 114th Avenue to 130th Avenue S.E. from two to four lanes, and from 90th Avenue to 106th Avenue S.E., from two to six lanes. This funding also includes the construction of an overpass at the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) rail line and the Western Headwaters Canal; intersection improvements; and storm water upgrades. This project will benefit the local community through improved traffic flow and enhanced transportation safety. The announcement was made by the Honourable Jim Prentice, Minister of Industry, on behalf of the Honourable Lawrence Cannon, Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, along with His Worship, Mayor Dave Bronconnier. This project is part of a larger, $114 million, effort already underway by The City of Calgary to widen 52nd Street from Glenmore Trail to130th Avenue S.E. The City has completed widening of 52nd Street from 106th Avenue to 114th Avenue S.E. and is currently widening 52nd Street from Glenmore Trail to 90th Avenue S.E. This improved infrastructure will provide a more efficient and safer approach to the primary access road for the CPR’s intermodal yard, as truck traffic destined for the yard comprises a significant percentage of traffic in the area. “This project will enhance the safety and efficiency of transportation infrastructure related to the movement of international trade through Canada’s Asia-Pacific Gateway,” said Minister Prentice. “The Government of Canada is committed to concrete measures that contribute to a more productive, competitive economy.” “Investing in strategic infrastructure benefits our communities and is key to Canada’s ability to compete in this rapidly changing world of global commerce,” said Minister Cannon. “We continue to work with all levels of government and stakeholders to establish the Gateway and Corridor system as the best link between North America and Asia.” “This partnership with the federal government will contribute to the overall health of our economy by enabling better access to international markets,” said Mayor Bronconnier. “With 40 per cent of our industrial traffic activity focused in southeast Calgary, improvements to the local transportation infrastructure will benefit a significant number of businesses, employers and workers.” This project is a priority under the Asia-Pacific Gateway and Corridor Initiative and the funding comes from the Gateways and Border Crossings Fund under the Building Canada infrastructure plan. This funding is conditional on the successful completion of an environmental assessment as required by the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act and the successful negotiation of a contribution agreement with project funding partners. The $2.1 billion Gateways and Border Crossings Fund was established to help improve the flow of goods between Canada and the rest of the world. Through the $33 billion Building Canada infrastructure plan, the Government of Canada will provide long-term, stable and predictable funding to help meet infrastructure needs across Canada. This plan will support a stronger, safer and better country. For more information about Canada’s APGCI, please visit www.apgci.gc.ca, and for more information on the Building Canada infrastructure plan and the Gateways and Border Crossings Fund, please visit www.buildingcanada.gc.ca. June 4, 2008The City Of Calgary Opens Green Water CentreCalgary’s Largest Sustainable Office Building Achieves Gold LEED™ CertificationCALGARY — The City of Calgary’s largest green building, the Water Centre, officially opened its doors to the public today with a minimum Green Building Council of Canada’s Gold LEED™ (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) level certification. The 183,000 square-foot, fully day lit, energy efficient, office building conserves energy and water and fosters a productive, healthy environment for visitors and employees alike. Through annual energy savings, waste reduction, operations and productivity in a centralized workplace, the Water Centre is expected to help pay for itself in 15 years and save ratepayers 40 per cent in operating costs (as compared to a similar standard building). The cost to own this facility also outweighs the cost to lease space in today’s market. “The Water Centre is an excellent example of a large scale project which addresses a number of objectives”, said Mayor Dave Bronconnier, The City of Calgary, “environmental sustainability, a healthy and attractive workplace and a great return on investment for ratepayers.” In 2003 Calgary announced a Sustainable Building Policy for all new City building projects to meet or exceed the Green Building Council of Canada’s silver LEED™ level rating, based on a national, voluntary green building certification system. The Water Centre has surpassed the silver level and reached gold accreditation, making it the first gold office building in Alberta. The Water Centre integrates innovative architectural and operational designs such as natural lighting, collaborative work spaces, customizable workstations and adjustable in-floor air diffusers, as well as an on-site fitness facility. Located near the Stampede grounds at 625 25 Avenue S.E., the Water Centre currently houses 800 Water Resources and Water Services employees. For more information, visit: www.calgary.ca/watercentre
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: July 21, 20082008 Census resultsCALGARY — The 2008 Civic Census results for the period from April 2007 to April 2008, shows that Calgary’s population continues to increase, although at a slightly slower pace than last year’s results. Calgary’s population grew from 1,019,942 in April 2007 to 1,042,892 in April 2008, an increase of 22,950. Census Report (streaming) 2008 census overview (PDF - 327 KB) Population growth (PDF - 337 KB) Calgary high growth communities (PDF - 341 KB) "Calgary’s population growth continues to be very strong. Last year, at 22,950 people, was just slightly above the ten-year average. Our Community has grown by a quarter-million people over the last decade, and will continue increasing at that pace over the next decade. That’s why it is so essential that we keep planning and building for growth," said Mayor Bronconnier. CityTalk Radio July 27, 2008 - Mayor Dave Bronconnier discusses 2008 City of Calgary Census Results (MP3 - 4.6 MB) Specific results from the 2007 Civic CensusCommunity growth
Net migration and natural increase Over the past 12 months, 12,441 more people moved into Calgary than moved away, a decrease of 5,190 from 2007. Natural increase (the result of births over deaths) was 9,695 persons, down 857 from last year’s figure of 10,552. Housing Results indicate that there is still growth in housing stock. The number of housing units, both existing and under construction, jumped from 420,311 to 432,997. Of the 402,500 occupied dwellings in the city, 288,347 (71.64%) are owner-occupied. The number of vacant dwelling units has increased from 5,825 in 2007 to 9,199 in 2008. The city’s overall vacancy rate is 2.23%, up from 1.46% in April 2007. The Civic Census results are available online at calgary.ca (mid-afternoon July 21, 2008) for this year and previous years.
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August 28, 2008Bronconnier Presses for "Gang-Free Alberta" StrategyCALGARY — Albertans have a right to be protected from the growing tide of gang crime and violence, and taking action to meet the goal of a "Gang-Free Alberta" should be a priority for our province, according to Mayor Dave Bronconnier. Establishing a Gang Free Alberta - Police Presentation (PDF - 199 KB) The Mayor and Calgary Police Chief Rick Hanson met today with Premier Stelmach and representatives from the provincial government to provide an update on organized and violent crimes in our city, and presented a strategy to combat it. The plan, which calls on the Province to commit $100 Million in new permanent annual funding, would allow for the creation of 500 new police officer positions across the province for crime hotspots like big cities, and provide additional resources for policing tools such as the crime lab. "We are seeing a growing and troubling dark side to our economic boom, specifically the increasing infiltration of violent criminal offenders. This needs to be addressed, and quickly. If Alberta can be a rat-free province, there is no reason why we can’t be gang-free, and run these criminal rats off our streets and into jails where they belong," said the Mayor. Bronconnier called on the province to match a proposal he will be taking to Calgary City Council on 2008 September 8 which will "pre-approve" budget for 201 additional police officers in Calgary over the next three years. In the 2008 Provincial budget, the Government of Alberta provided funding for 41 new police officers in Calgary however the remaining 159 positions do not have provincial funding commitments. Bronconnier noted that more officers on the ground in the battle against crime are only part of the solution, but there is an undeniable and urgent need for this facet of the strategy. He said, "Meeting the goal of being gang-free will mean more resources for our prosecutors, courts and jails. It will mean cooperation with community partners in addressing social problems which underlie crime. It will mean changes in the Criminal Code to target organized crime and violent behavior. But I don’t think any reasonable person could believe that meeting this goal won’t involve more officers. The police we have are doing a great job, but they need more support now."
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August 24, 2008Taking action to address violent crime in CalgaryCALGARY — The Calgary Police Service will soon have more manpower to put toward combating violent crime in our city, according to a plan put forward by Mayor Dave Bronconnier and Police Chief Rick Hanson today. The plan, which the Mayor will request City Council to consider on 2008 September 8th, involves the “pre-approval” of a $25 Million increase to the Police Service’s budget over the next three years to fund 201 new sworn officers. This unprecedented pre-approval prior to budget deliberations in the Fall will allow the Police Service to recruit and train additional officers in 2008, for deployment early in the New Year. Mayor Bronconnier said the growing problem of violence and organized crime in our city needs to be addressed now, and should not wait for budget hearings later in the year. "This violence in our streets won’t be tolerated. Our Police Service is doing a great job, but they need more help. We need to let them know that help is on the way, and we want them to come down on these criminals like a ton of bricks." "The allocation of these new officers is greatly appreciated by the Calgary Police Service," said Chief Rick Hanson. "The men and women of the Service work extremely hard to protect our city, but the challenges brought on by our rapid growth and the increased sophistication of organized crime has stretched us to the limit. This infusion of new resources will enable us to more effectively address these issues in a timely manner." The three year strategy being presented to City Council by the Police Commission in the Fall calls for a total of 400 new officers for the Calgary Police Service over the next three years, with half funded through the municipality and the remainder through new support from the Federal and Provincial governments. Bronconnier and Hanson said they would be meeting with Premier Stelmach next week to seek additional support from the Province. "Organized crime groups operate across multiple jurisdictions in Canada, and Calgary is no different. The only way to effectively combat them is with a multi-faceted approach involving partnerships between policing agencies, and devoting the resources necessary to effectively investigate and prosecute," said Chief Hanson. Mayor Bronconnier noted that "Public safety is the most important thing that government’s do. With Council's approval of this measure, we'll be showing our resolve in fighting crime and protecting our citizens. The next step will be to encourage senior orders of government to help us step up the fight."
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Mary Ann Houston
September 30, 2008Calgary Mayor Makes the Case for Municipal Finance ReformCALGARY — The funding of Alberta’s municipalities is a broken system which is needlessly adversarial, inefficient, slow to respond to citizens’ needs and requires reform to ensure the quality of life of Calgarians. Mayor Dave Bronconnier, speaking to a meeting of the Downtown Rotary Club today at noon today, offered a simple solution – The Province should stop giving direct grants to municipalities, while simultaneously vacating Provincial property tax room to accommodate additional revenues for Alberta’s cash-strapped municipalities. 2008 Provincial Budget Submission (PDF - 1.96 MB) The Case for Municipal Finance Reform Address (PDF - 32 KB) Address at the Downtown Rotary Club (video streaming) The Mayor noted that the issue has been studied by many of Canada’s finest thinkers, and they all come to one consensus: municipalities are systematically under-funded, which negatively impacts municipal service quality and infrastructure. "Don’t take my word for it," said Bronconnier, "Ask the Conference Board of Canada, the C.D. Howe Institute and Canada West Foundation. Municipalities across the country have a revenue problem," said Bronconnier. While the Mayor praised the provincial government for their actions in bolstering infrastructure funding to municipalities, he also noted that these programs do not solve the "root cause" of under-funded municipalities – "They treat the symptoms and not the disease." Bronconnier illustrated how the current "broken" system creates cumbersome "red-tape" through administration of inter-governmental grants and unnecessary delays in addressing the needs of citizens. He said, "The Provincial Government provides Calgary with about $70 Million in annual operating grants – that’s $70 Million on an operating budget of $2.24 Billion. When you think about all the bureaucracy associated with drafting, vetting, administering, funding and auditing those programs, you just know intuitively there has to be a better way." Bronconnier urged the Provincial Government to take action soon to "fix this problem, once and for all", by simultaneously starting to vacate Provincial property taxes and eliminating direct grants to municipalities. "We should give municipal councils the revenues they need, and make them truly accountable to their citizens. It would allow municipalities to focus on local issues. It would allow the Province to focus on Provincial issues, and best of all, it would allow us both to serve our citizens better."
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: September 26, 2008Investing in Public SafetyGround Breaks on Saddle Ridge Protective Services Station CALGARY — Building a safer city is the theme of the day as construction of Calgary’s newest Tri-Services Facility is launched at an official groundbreaking this afternoon. The $30 Million facility, which will bring together the Calgary Police Service, Calgary Fire Department, and Calgary EMS under one roof in the community of Saddle Ridge, will service neighborhoods in the North East including: Saddle Ridge, Martindale, Taradale, Castleridge and Falconridge. Saddle Ridge Tri Services Groundbreaking (video streaming) Saddle Ridge Protective Services Backgrounder (PDF - 808 KB) Turning the first shovel of sod, Mayor Dave Bronconnier said, "Public safety is our number one priority in Calgary, and this facility represents City Council’s commitment to addressing this vital need in our community. Today, I’d like to thank Council for supporting this, our provincial partners for being there with funding, and most of all the community for helping us bring this important new facility to life." The Mayor was joined at the groundbreaking by Alderman Jim Stevenson, Police Chief Rick Hanson, Fire Chief Bruce Burrell and EMS Deputy Chief Jim Nicholson. Provincial Housing Minister Yvonne Fritz was present representing the Province of Alberta’s important contribution to the project. Development of the new station would not have been possible without Provincial support through the Alberta Municipal Infrastructure Program and the Municipal Sustainability Initiative. Municipal Affairs Minister Ray Danyluk praised the new investment noting, "Strong, safe communities are a key priority of this government, and I am pleased that Calgary has taken the opportunity to apply MSI funding to a facility that will improve the delivery of emergency services and help keep Calgarians safe." The City’s Corporate Properties & Buildings Department will manage the construction project. The Saddle Ridge Tri-Services Facility will be built to achieve a silver level certificate to the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Program. Planning and design of the facility was finalized through extensive consultation with representatives of the surrounding communities over the last three years. Construction is scheduled to be completed by mid 2010.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: AMCW Communications Leader (403) 268-4843 (Office) (403) 815-2378 (Cell) ed.conway@calgary.ca September 15, 2008West LRT Project "On Track" Due To Landmark AgreementCALGARY — The new West Leg of Calgary Light Rail Transit System is moving full speed ahead thanks to an unprecedented agreement announced today by representatives of The City of Calgary and the Province of Alberta. The plan calls for the construction of a new high school on 17th Avenue and 69th Street S.W., which will then allow decommissioning of Ernest Manning High School to make way for LRT expansion. West Calgary High School Poster (PDF - 575 KB) Ernest Manning School Replacement Project (PDF - 898 KB) Under the terms of the agreement, The City will manage construction of the estimated $60 Million facility, as well as provide the land and $30 Million toward the facility. The balance of the funding will be provided by the Government of Alberta. The replacement school will have space for 1,500 students, and will be expandable to 1,800 students in the future. EMHS will continue to operate until the new school is completed (scheduled for January 2011), so there will be no disruption in educational programming. "This is a great example of what can be accomplished when partners come together creatively to make ‘the possible’ a reality," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "This is truly a situation where everyone wins. Our new LRT line is moving ahead, students are getting a new school, and taxpayers are getting a great value."
The new high school will be situated adjacent to the West LRT alignment which will provide additional transit options for students. The existing Ernest Manning High School site will be the Westbrook LRT station, and will be a major transit-oriented development.
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October 24, 2008Mayor welcomes crew of HMCS CALGARY home after 6-month deployment to Middle EastCalgary - Mayor Bronconnier joined Chief of Defence Staff, General Walter Natynczyk and Alberta Lt. Gov. Norman Kwong to welcome the crew of HMCS Calgary home after sailing around the world and spending six months at sea on OPERATION ALTAIR in the Middle East. CALGARY's crew of 250 sailors departed the Naval Base in Esquimalt, B.C. along with two other Canadian warships on April 13, 2008 as part of the Combined Task Force 150 (a naval coalition task force being led by Canada). During CALGARY's 6-month deployment, the crew conducted maritime security operations in the Caribbean with the Joint Inter Agency Force South prior to crossing the Atlantic with HMCS PROTECTEUR to join NATO allies with the OP ALTAIR mission. They participated in an Italian led NATO maritime exercise in the Mediterranean Sea and upon reaching the Middle East, the Canadian ships led the multi-national Combined Task Force 150 that patrols an operations area including the Gulf of Aden, Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea and the Indian Ocean. The Task Force, represented by warships from France, Germany, Pakistan, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States is engaged in maritime security operations to deter the transport of contraband cargo, piracy and disrupt the movements of extremists in the region. HMCS Calgary and her Sea King helicopter crew took part in several counter piracy missions. Boarding parties were dispatched to inspect and confirm the cargo of vessels of interest as well as respond to calls for assistance and provide humanitarian aid. The 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron Detachment flew 370 hours in 150 missions from the deck of HMCS Calgary.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: October 9, 2008Mayor delivers on infrastructure promise: all lanes open on Glenmore Trail from Macleod Trail to Crowchild TrailCALGARY — Just in time for Thanksgiving, Calgarians can now celebrate the completion of the Glenmore Causeway project. As of this morning, all lanes are open and the speed limit is back to 80 km/h, with no signs of work crews or barriers. Glenmore Trail Opening (video streaming) "Calgarians told us that transportation was their number one priority, and City Council listened," said Mayor Bronconnier in a video released on his web site. "The improvements on Glenmore Trail were completed on schedule and on budget and will provide faster, smoother traffic flow for 140,000 commuters daily. The east-west trucking routes will also see improvements, with goods movement becoming more efficient and keeping Calgary’s economy on the move." The first stage of upgrades to Glenmore Trail was completed in 2007 with the Glenmore Trail/Elbow Drive/5 Street S.W. Interchange (GE5) project. The next section of upgrades over the Glenmore Causeway was finished yesterday, marking the completion of the largest infrastructure project in Calgary’s history. "These projects were a massive undertaking. Calgarians have shown incredible patience and support during construction, and are finally able to reap the benefits," said the Mayor. "The improvements to Glenmore Trail are vital in managing the city’s growth, and essential to maintaining Calgarians’ quality of life in the years to come." The improvements to Glenmore Trail included two new interchanges, two pedestrian bridges, additional lanes and a wider bridge over the Glenmore Reservoir, and increased capacity on the ramps. As part of the continuing effort to improve transportation in Calgary, construction is underway to widen Glenmore Trail from four to six lanes between Deerfoot Trail and 18 Street S.E., and twin the Graves Bridge over the Bow River.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: October 6, 2008Fire Prevention Week Launched in Calgary
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