January 29, 2009Sport Legacy Calgary is hosting an exciting year of major sporting events, bringing some of the best athletes in the World to our city. The Tim Horton's Brier on March 7-15, Canada's largest attended sporting event and 2009 Grey Cup on November 29th, a Canadian classic are the anchors. In between are the Ironman 70.3 (Aug. 2), the World Waterski Championship Festival (Aug. 3-9), the CN Canadian Women's Open (Sept.3-6) along with the Burton Canadian Snowboard Open (Feb. 2-8), BMO Skate Canada Junior Nationals (Feb 11 – 14), Esso Cup, National Women's Midget Championship (Apr. 19-25), Canadian National Karate Championship (Jul. 23–25), Calgary Highland Games (Aug. 29) and the World Skills Competition (Sept. 1–6). Tourism Calgary Sportspiel Media Release (PDF - 172 KB) On January 29th a fun "sportspiel" launched this outstanding sports line-up. Joining Mayor Bronconnnier for a friendly game were current Brier and World Curling Champions, Kevin Martin and his team (John Morris, Marc Kennedy, Ben Hebert), Mike Labinjo and Burke Dales of the 2008 Grey Cup Champion Calgary Stampeders, triathlete Lisa Minsink, local LPGA tour player Kim Carrington and Todd Johnson with Canada's National Water Skiing team. Come out to cheer on the athletes and join in the experience of these exciting major sports events throughout the year.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: January 23, 2009Online Business Licence and Permit Tool Expands to Calgary Calgary - Starting and running a business in Calgary just became easier thanks to BizPaL, an online business permit and licence service that saves time spent on paperwork and helps entrepreneurs start up faster. Today, Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism, on behalf of Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, together with Heather Klimchuk, Minister of Service Alberta, and Mayor David Bronconnier, welcomed the launch of BizPaL in Calgary. They also acknowledged the recent launches of BizPaL in the Alberta communities of Airdrie, Arrowwood, Carmangay, Lomond, Milo, the Town of Vulcan and Vulcan County. BizPaL is an innovative service that provides entrepreneurs with simplified access to the information on permits and licences they need to establish and run their businesses. This unique partnership among federal, provincial, territorial, regional and local governments is designed to cut through paperwork and red tape that small business owners encounter. The BizPaL service in Calgary was developed by the City of Calgary, the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada. "I am pleased to see BizPaL extended to Calgary, and to the eight other communities joining the BizPaL team today," said Ablonczy. "Small businesses are a key economic engine of our great county, and when they succeed, the whole country's economy succeeds. That's why our government is committed to helping small business owners thrive by cutting taxes and reducing the paperwork burden that they face every day." "One of the Alberta government's top priorities is creating opportunity for Albertans," said Klimchuk. "The launch of BizPaL in Calgary gives business owners and entrepreneurs fast and simple access to information about the permits and licences they need, making it easier for them to get up and running." "BizPaL is about cutting red tape and making sure business people have a 'one stop shop' for all the information they need to open or expand," said Bronconnier. "This is a great tool for our business community." Area business owners and entrepreneurs can access the service by visiting calgary.ca/bizpal or www.bizpal.alberta.ca. Visit bizpal.ca for additional information and access to the websites of participating partners.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact:
Marcia Andreychuk
Catherine Godbout
Media Relations
Cameron Traynor January 15, 2009Mayor Presses Calgary's Case for Federal Budget Ottawa - Mayor Dave Bronconnier is promoting support for Alberta's energy industry, housing and municipal infrastructure as he meets in Ottawa today with other Canadian big city Mayors and members of the Federal Government. The proposals put forward by The City of Calgary advocate for efforts to stimulate the sagging economy in the upcoming federal budget, with the dual purpose of immediate job stimulus and long-term strategic investments in the economy. Proposals range from direct financial investments by government to other tools to spur private sector investment such as tax incentives and securing access to investment capital. Proposed Recommendations for Economic Stimulus (PDF - 1.19 MB) Federal Budget Submission - English (PDF - 866 KB) Federal Budget Submission - French (PDF - 867 KB) Specific themes outlined in Calgary's budget submission include:
Commenting on Calgary's input to the Federal Government, Bronconnier noted "I don't think anyone is under the illusion that governments can spend their way out of this recession, but as a stimulus, infrastructure is a wise investment. Government at all levels have other tools beyond direct spending, and should be putting them to work in areas which create and protect jobs, and will add value for our economy in the long term. And our federal, provincial and municipal governments need to take action together to deliver on that."
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: February 24, 2009Attainable Housing Program for Calgary in Development Over the next two days, Mayor Dave Bronconnier will be meeting with attainable housing experts in Southern California, and visiting housing developments in the area. Attainable Housing programs have been very successful throughout the United States and Europe to create homeownership opportunities for low-to-mid income families who would not otherwise be able to own their home. The Mayor's meetings and site visits will provide important background information, as Calgary seeks to implement an attainable housing program of its own. Recently, a report by the Committee to End Homelessness identified "attainable home ownership" as an important segment of housing needed in Calgary, and Mayor Bronconnier has been in discussions with other orders of government to develop a program for Calgary. During the two day business trip, Mayor Bronconnier will be meeting with:
The cost of the Mayor's travel and participation in this series of meetings is expected to be approximately $2,000.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: February 18, 2009CTrain Carries its One Billionth Customer One Billion Brochure (PDF - 1.55 MB) After only 28 years of operation, Calgary's CTrain today carried its one billionth passenger and counting. Mayor Dave Bronconnier, members of City Council and Calgary Transit Director Fred Wong congratulated commuter Shelly Xiao during a ceremony at the 1 Street SW CTrain Station. Ms. Xiao was randomly selected as Calgary Transit's one billionth CTrain customer since the light rail transit system began operation May 25, 1981. "One billion customers is an amazing performance and a reflection of the tremendous growth of our transit system," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. Ridership on the CTrain has continued to grow over the years and has doubled over the past decade. When the west leg of the LRT is completed, The City will have doubled the size of the CTrain network in just over a decade. 2009 is Calgary Transit’s Centennial year and given that the one billionth customer is recorded this year, makes it particularly special. "This is quite the milestone for our organization," Fred Wong said, noting the CTrain system is the most popular LRT system in North America carrying over 280,000 people every week day. "We are proudly looking forward to serving the community over the next 100 years." Ms. Xiao received an assortment of gifts to commemorate the occasion, including monthly transit passes until the end of 2009 and a limited edition model SD 160 CTrain car.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact:
Ron Collins March 3, 2009State of the City 2009 - Mayor Outlines Calgary's Economic Stimulus Strategy for 2009 and Beyond State of the City Speech (PDF - 21 KB) Calgary - The City of Calgary is prepared to weather economic difficulties in the near future, and is moving forward with a strategy which includes a massive 5-year infrastructure program and significant investments in core City services. During his annual State of the City speech today, Mayor Dave Bronconnier said that The City of Calgary would be investing nearly 2 Billion dollars in infrastructure in 2009, with a total of 6 Billion capital dollars budgeted for the next 5 years. The infrastructure investment for The City of Calgary this year actually equals that recently announced in the Federal Budget for stimulus across all of Canada, and Calgary's building program will be responsible for creating over 51,000 person-years of employment over the next 5 year period. Bronconnier noted, "This strategy will mean that much needed infrastructure gets built, at the same time as we provide a 'shot in the arm' for our economy." Today's address to the Downtown Rotary Club also outlined the plan to bolster front line City services in key areas such as hiring 130 new firefighters. Tackling violent crime is a particularly important feature of Calgary's 3-year budget, with 300 new police officers being sworn into service. "There was a clear message in our budget to those who choose to lead a life of crime," said the Mayor, "You don't own the streets – law abiding Calgarians do – and our police force is going to be given all the resources they need to drive these thugs out of business." Bronconnier also highlighted expansions in Transit planned for Calgary, with an additional 300,000 hours of service coming on stream over the next three years. One of the centre-pieces of Calgary's infrastructure program will include construction of the West Leg of the LRT, which will be open for business in 2012. The Mayor strongly defended The City's 3-year budget process, stating it is imperative that The City take a longer-term view of business planning and operations, and noting that it provides more efficient and accountable management while still keeping Calgary's tax increases below the provincial average for urban municipalities. Bronconnier said that Calgary's budget and planning process is flexible enough to allow The City to weather current economic conditions, but more importantly, "will leave us in better shape on the other side of them." Mayor Bronconnier concluded that Calgary's future remains very positive, "Calgary has faced difficult times before, and we have overcome them. And we will again, driven by an enduring belief that our City won’t merely survive – we will prevail and we will prosper. So as we prepare ourselves to face the adversity which confronts us in the immediate future, let us also be resolute that Calgary's brightest days and finest hours lie ahead."
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: March 2, 2009Mayor Congratulates the Province on Moving Forward with Calgary Mega Project Alberta's public-private partnership for highways (PDF - 147 KB) Calgary - The Alberta government is taking the first steps toward building the southeast leg of Calgary's ring road. "Hundreds of thousands of people living in southeast Calgary have told us mobility is a priority and this mega project delivers for them," said David Bronconnier, Mayor of Calgary. "This is great news for Calgary. The Alberta government deserves our thanks and congratulations for pressing forward with this vital infrastructure." Government will use its public-private partnership (P3) model to extend Stoney Trail from 17 Avenue SE to the east side of the existing Macleod Trail interchange. Government has issued the request for qualifications (RFQ), the model's first step. The RFQ process takes approximately three months. "The P3 process has been very successful for other portions of the Calgary and Edmonton ring roads and I'm confident the process will work for this project," said Luke Ouellette, Minister of Transportation. "A P3 allows a project to be built more quickly than through conventional delivery and government is guaranteed a fixed price and delivery date." The RFQ ensures potential partners are capable of completing the project. The top three candidates identified by the RFQ will be asked to submit proposals to determine which of them, if any, will be chosen to undertake the project. The successful proponent would be responsible for the project's design, construction, financing, and operation for 30 years. The proponent would recoup these costs through equal payments from government over 30 years once the road opens to traffic. Government also receives a 30-year warranty on the work. The successful contractor would start construction in spring 2010 and finish by fall 2013. To ensure a fair, competitive bidding process, government will not release cost estimates until proposals are received. The project involves 25 kilometres of six-lane roadway, nine interchanges, two flyover railway crossings and 29 total bridge structures. The roadway's main line will be completely free-flow and have no traffic lights. If built through the P3 process, the road would be finished two years earlier than through conventional delivery. The contract also includes maintenance of Deerfoot Trail from south of Highway 22X to the junction with Highway 2A. Visit www.transportation.alberta.ca/804.htm for more information on the Calgary ring road.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact:
April 26, 2009Mayor Reports To Calgarians Via Internet Calgary - In his annual report to Calgarians, Mayor Dave Bronconnier offers his assessment of "The Year that Was" in 2008, and the strategic plans for our city in 2009 and beyond. The Mayor's Report, released today for the first time in video format via the web, highlights that 2008 was really "two years in one" for Calgary. The beginning of the year was marked by a "red hot" economy, with our city topping the list of nearly every economic indicator. By the Fall however, Calgary was seeing the effects of the dramatic global economic downturn. Mayor's Annual Report (Video) The e-report outlines major initiatives accomplished last year, including investments in protective services, transportation and transit, parks development and approval of the 2009 - 2011 3-year budget. Looking forward, the Mayor noted that Council is making strategic choices to make our city better for the future, specifically focusing on safety, quality of life, innovation, affordability and competitiveness. Bronconnier concluded, "2008 was a year unlike any we've experienced in our generation. And 2009 will bring challenges. But it's even more important now - in the face of this uncertainty - that we hold firm to our goals, values and vision for the future. If we do, we'll come through these challenging times thriving, not merely surviving." This is the first year that Mayor Bronconnier has used a web-based video Report to Calgarians. In previous years, a print version was delivered to every household. The e-report offers considerable cost savings over print, with the total cost of production this year at approximately $25,000. Calgarians are encouraged to view the Mayor's annual report online. Shaw Television Calgary Channel 10 will also be broadcasting the Mayor's report at the following times:
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: April 23, 2009Mayor Bronconnier Officially Opens Recycling Sorting Facility Materials Recovery Facility Opening (PDF - 1,062 KB) Calgary - Mayor Dave Bronconnier set the machinery in motion officially opening Calgary's new recycling sorting plant today. The materials recovery facility (MRF), which is owned and operated by METRO Waste Paper Recovery Inc., will sort all of the recyclables collected through The City's Blue Cart recycling service and community recycling depots. "Making investments today to protect our environment is a commitment and priority for City Council," said Mayor Bronconnier. "With the Blue Cart program and the opening of this facility, Calgarians are now able to divert twice as many recyclable items away from our landfills - thereby saving land, saving energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions." The MRF is located in the Eastlake Industrial Centre in southeast Calgary. In addition to the multitude of local trades people involved in the construction of the MRF, the facility will employ 60 Calgarians. METRO will initially focus on recyclables collected by The City but will accept materials from private recyclers later this year. "Calgary's new Blue Cart recycling program has brought this facility to Calgary," says Albino Metauro, Chief Executive Officer of METRO Waste Paper Recovery Inc. "This facility is one of the largest in Canada and uses the most advanced sorting technology available today. We are delighted to work with The City, and as we look into the future, we will be able to service not only the municipality, but private companies as well." The facility can process up to 40 tonnes of mixed recyclables per hour and 120,000 tonnes per year. The City of Calgary expects to collect approximately 80,000 tonnes of household recyclables each year, allowing for more capacity in the future. Using the latest equipment including optical sorters, magnets and conveyors, the plant will sort plastics 1-7, newspapers and magazines, cardboard and mixed paper, food cans and glass. METRO will ship the sorted materials to companies that will turn them into new products. "The MRF is a key component to the success of the new Blue Cart service," says Dave Griffiths, Director of Waste & Recycling Services with The City of Calgary. "It makes recycling easier for residents as they can put all recyclables together in the blue carts without sorting and expands The City's recycling service to include plastics." METRO Waste Paper Recovery Inc. is one of North America's largest collectors, processors and marketers of recyclable materials. METRO has been serving the industrial, commercial, printing and municipal sectors for over 30 years and operates 18 MRFs in 14 marketplaces across Canada and the U.S. The City will provide Blue Cart recycling service to approximately 300,000 single family homes up to and including fourplexes. Collection of recyclables from homes began in the southwest quadrant on April 21. Service will begin in the southeast on May 12, northwest on June 9 and northeast on June 30. For more information about Blue Cart recycling, visit calgary.ca/bluecart.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: April 22, 2009Mayor Offers Assistance For Calgary's Struggling Construction Sector Address to Urban Development Institute (PDF - 16 KB) Calgary - With the local residential construction sector facing one of the most difficult years in decades, Mayor Dave Bronconnier today outlined a plan to offer relief and spur economic activity for this struggling industry. The Mayor announced a proposal for a one year "freeze on fees" to maintain developer acreage assessments at 2008 levels, and provide additional flexibility in the payment of fees by the development industry. Notice of Motion - 2009 Acreage Assessment Levies and Standard Development Agreement Negotiations (PDF - 41 KB) At the luncheon meeting, the Mayor noted, "Our local residential construction sector has been hit hard by the recession. It is a very reasonable and prudent step to offer some temporary relief to this important industry, which is grappling with slumping demand and significant job losses." Bronconnier's speech to a lunch meeting of the Calgary Urban Development Institute highlighted the balance and flexibility built into Calgary's 3-year budget. The plan, approved by City Council last November, includes property tax increases lower than most Alberta communities, coupled with significant increases to front line services such as policing and transit, and an unprecedented six billion dollar 5-year capital plan. The Mayor's address noted that the budget includes support for those citizens hardest hit by the current recession, and that City Council needs to be creative in helping businesses weather the current economic downtown. "In the long-term, if we want growth to pay for itself, we need to ensure we have a healthy and sustainable construction and development industry in Calgary," said the Mayor. Four years ago, The City of Calgary signed an agreement with members of the Urban Development Institute for financial contributions toward new infrastructure from new developments. The agreement called for a 12% increase in acreage assessments in 2009. Bronconnier's proposal, which will be brought to City Council's 2009 April 27 meeting, calls for a one-year cap on assessment increases, thereby holding 2009 charges at 2008 levels.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: April 20, 2009Water for Calgary's Future - Improvements Complete at Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant Ensuring Tomorrow's Water Today (PDF - 708 KB) Calgary - On April 20, a new era of water treatment will begin in Calgary with the official opening of a $170-million-dollar upgrade to the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant (BWTP). The upgrades help ensure Calgarians needs for safe and reliable drinking water continues well into the foreseeable future, also improving water treatment processes and reducing Calgary's environmental footprint. New Era in Water Treatment (Video) The upgrades have increased Bearspaw's capacity by 100 million litres (ML) a day to a total of 550 ML per day, enough to fill the Saddle Dome more than one and half times each day. "We are committed to ensuring Calgarians continue to receive safe and reliable drinking water today and well into the future," said Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "These improvements increase our plants overall capacity, enhance our water treatment processes and will better protect the environment." In addition to meeting future demand, the real benefits are in the construction of Calgary's new Pre-Treatment Facility and first Residuals Treatment Facility. The new Pre-Treatment Facility has enhanced Calgary's water treatment processes, improving the efficiency at which debris and silt can be removed from the Bow Rivers water. "Before the upgrade, seasonal run-off entering the Bow River can be laden with debris and silt that can hamper our ability to produce enough drinking water to meet city demand," noted Dan Limacher, Manager of Water. "If the run-off event is prolonged and serious enough, it could require city-wide watering restrictions to be implemented. The new Pre-Treatment Facility reduces the impact on our water treatment plants by more efficiently removing debris and silt from the water supply, ensuring our water treatment plants can continue to meet city demand." The new Residuals Treatment Facility has set an example for environmental stewardship by reducing Water Services' operational impact on the environment in two ways. "In the past, plant operations, required regular filter beds to be cleaned, which involved flushing them with chlorinated water to remove debris and sediment," noted Steve Dold, Water Resources, Project Engineering Leader. "This water was then sent back to the Bow River affecting our sensitive aquatic ecosystems. Today, this water is instead sent to the Residual Treatment Facility where the debris and silt is dewatered and sent to the City landfill. Chlorinated water is then recycled to the start of the treatment process."
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: Background As part of Water Services' Water Treatment Plant upgrades program, a total of $370 million has been invested in modernizing both the Bearspaw and Glenmore water treatment plants. Once Glenmore's Residuals Treatment Facility is completed in 2011, The City will be able to reduce the amount of water withdrawn by the river by up to 15 per cent each year. While the upgrades are required to help meet Calgary's future water demands, they are only part of the solution in managing our water resources wisely. The City's Water Efficiency Plan outlines ways we can all contribute to reducing our impact on our water resources. "The 30-in-30 Water Efficiency goal is to accommodate Calgary's future population growth with the same amount of water we removed from the river in 2003," noted Wolf Keller, Director of Water Resources. "To do this we need to reduce per capita water consumption by 30 per cent over 30 years and we can all contribute to this goal by using water more wisely." Calgarians can find more information about The City's Water Conservation programs and conservation tips by visiting www.calgary.ca/waterservices. April 9, 2009Electricity deal will make The City of Calgary the largest major municipal user of renewable electricity in Canada 100 % Renewable in 2012 (PDF - 378 KB) Calgary - A new electricity deal will soon make The City of Calgary the largest major municipal user of renewable energy in Canada. It will also make The City the largest by percentage usage and the third largest by volume in North America. The City and ENMAX Energy have amended their long-term electricity agreement whereby 100 per cent of the electricity purchased for City operations will be obtained from renewable sources starting in 2012, up from the original 2007 target of 75 per cent and surpassing its 2012 target of 90 per cent. "This is a landmark agreement and demonstrates our global leadership in reducing the impact of electricity generation on the environment," said Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "We are absolutely committed to reducing Calgary's ecological footprint and this is one of the key strategies to achieve that goal." Over the life of the agreement, the avoided GHG emissions are expected to be about seven million tonnes or equal to about 32,000 rail cars full of coal that won't be needed to power City operations. That many rail cars is over 500 km long and would stretch from Calgary to Saskatoon if placed end-to-end. The agreement also supports The City’s Climate Change Action Plan Target Minus 50 to reduce corporate greenhouse gas emissions to 50 per cent of 1990 levels by 2012. By 2012, emissions from City-owned facilities and equipment are projected to be about 170,000 tonnes per year, compared to approximately 460,000 tonnes in 1990, a reduction of 63 per cent. "This agreement enables The City to meet its green energy targets, even when factoring in the increase in The City's electricity needs to accommodate growth, now and in the future," said Owen Tobert, city manager. "Assuring The City of Calgary has a long-term energy supply from renewable sources like our wind farms makes good economic sense for Calgarians and good environmental sense for Canadians," said Gary Holden, President and CEO of ENMAX. City electricity use was approximately 400,000 MWh in 2008 and is expected to increase by approximately 40 to 50 per cent over the term of the agreement. The agreement is managed by the Energy Management Office, an office jointly staffed by The City of Calgary and ENMAX. Chris Wade, director of Infrastructure Services added: "This agreement provides a long-term supply of renewable electricity that meets Council's green electricity targets at a guaranteed price that is very competitive. City Council has consistently supported a renewable energy policy to show leadership in reducing greenhouse gas emissions." The agreement also complements other "green" initiatives at The City. For example, a green office plan is underway including an internal waste reduction and recycling initiative. A comprehensive green fleet strategy will be developed this year including biofuel use, vehicle "right-sizing", reducing vehicle-idling and the use of alternative technologies like hybrid vehicles. The City has also moved beyond simply measuring Calgary's ecological footprint to promoting community action to reduce the footprint. "In concert with our internal initiatives to develop best practices in environmental action, we are committed to working with community leaders to inspire citizens and offer practical suggestions for what steps they can take to protect our environment," said Dave Day, director of Environmental & Safety Management. City of Calgary-ENMAX Energy Management Office The Energy Management Office is the energy practice leader in developing, implementing and communicating policies, programs and technologies that promote the purchase and use of renewable energy throughout The City of Calgary operations.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: April 8, 2009Calgary is the Top Global City: New Study Says Toronto as a Global City: Scorecard on Prosperity (PDF - 790 KB) Calgary - According to a new study released by the Toronto Board of Trade, Calgary is the best among 21 cities around the world in terms of economic and quality of life measures. The study, which was released on Tuesday, compared Calgary and four other Canadian cities against 16 major international cities including New York, Hong Kong, London, Paris and Shanghai on 25 separate criteria including economic strength, productivity and employment growth. "I think it's pretty impressive -- I've always thought that, but then people just think that I'm being boastful," Mayor Dave Bronconnier said. "When you look at it from an economic perspective, job creation and growth in the last decade -- it's been nothing short of stellar performance." According to the study, Calgary’s "overall favourable environment provides a solid basis for attracting and keeping people." While economic factors play a significant role, The City of Calgary provides a number of key services and programs that likely contribute to that favourable environment. The 2008 Citizen Satisfaction Survey, an independent study performed by Ipsos Reid on The City of Calgary’s behalf, indicates that Calgarians believe that The City’s strengths lie in a wide range of services that positively impact their lives including:
In the study based on the 2007 data, Calgary was the only city to receive an overall "A" grade in The Toronto Board of Trade's study, and was the top performer in five economic indicators: employment growth, income growth, unemployment rate, residential and commercial building permit growth and total tax index which measures total tax burden for similar corporations. Calgary received the top "A" grade in 13 separate categories, the highest for any city:
The results of this report mirror The Conference Board of Canada's 2007 City Magnets report, available at conferenceboard.ca, where Calgary was also ranked best among all 27 Canadian cities. The full Toronto Board of Trade report is available from their website at bot.com.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact:
May 27, 20092009 GREY CUP FESTIVAL ANNOUNCE PREMIER SPONSORS, FESTIVAL EVENTS, AND GREY CUP TICKETS ON SALE TO THE PUBLIC The 2009 Grey Cup Festival is pleased to announce the premier festival partners, events occurring over the Grey Cup Festival Nov 26-29th, 2009, and the 97th Grey Cup Championship ticket sale date to the general public. The official announcement was made in Calgary where 2009 Grey Cup Festival Chairman Malcolm Kirk and President Greg Albrecht unveiled these exciting announcements among many guests. Events Schedule & Press Release Download (PDF - 510 KB) “To be able to showcase these great events to Calgary and CFL fans from across the country, we have secured some of the best corporate partners to make this the best Grey Cup Festival the CFL and its passionate fans have ever seen” said President Malcolm Kirk. In making the announcement, Kirk acknowledged the importance of these festival partners and announced Canada Safeway as the premier sponsor of the Grey Cup Parade, Scotiabank the premier sponsor of the Gala Dinner and Concert and the Calgary Herald as a premier Festival sponsor. Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier and Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach are also strongly supporting the event as the city and the province are festival partners additionally and were on hand for the announcement. “In November, Calgary will host a Grey Cup festival that’s bigger and better than anything before,” said Mayor Bronconnier. “It’s going to be a great game, and a great party! We’re hoping Canadian football fans far and wide will come join us here in Calgary - I guarantee you’re going to have fun.”
“The Alberta government is proud to help bring the Grey Cup to Calgary again,” said Premier Ed Stelmach. “This event is an opportunity for Albertans and Canadians everywhere to join in the pre-game festivities in Calgary, whose fans began the tradition back in 1948. The event will also showcase Calgary and Alberta on the national stage and we couldn’t be prouder.” “We are full steam ahead producing the Festival events, and are currently designing a full program that will include parties, street Festivals, concerts, art instalments, Canada’s top entertainers, and bringing back the historic Grey Cup Parade to the Festival,” said Albrecht. Planning for the 97th Annual Grey Cup is well underway and tickets are expected to sell very quickly when they go on sale to the public. President Scott Ackles then followed to discuss the response from Calgary Stampeder season ticket holders this year. “With the Calgary Stampeders being the defending Grey Cup Champions and the game being held here at home, the Stampeders have had an exceptional response to season’s tickets this year. Because of this overwhelming response, there are a limited number of seats available to the game and we anticipate them selling out quickly”, said Ackles. With that the Grey Cup Festival announced tickets for the 97th Grey Cup Game will be on sale to the public this Saturday, May 30th at 10:00 am through Ticketmaster, as well as at McMahon Stadium during the Calgary Stampeder Fan Fest event May 30th. To purchase tickets to the 97th annual Grey Cup visit www.ticketmaster.ca or call 403-777-0633. Calgary last hosted the CFL championship on November 26, 2000 when the B.C. Lions defeated the Montreal Alouettes. The 1975 and 1993 Grey Cups also were contested at McMahon Stadium. The Grey Cup is Canada’s largest professional sporting event. A celebration of sport and culture, the Grey Cup is uniquely Canadian and has a storied history and deep traditions. The 2009 Grey Cup Festival, “Canada’s Game Calgary’s Party”, will be distinctly Canadian and showcase Calgary’s famous western hospitality. For more information log onto www.2009greycupfestival.com
There will be more events, entertainers and programming being announced so be sure to check www.2009greycupfestival.com for all the latest developments.
For media inquiries please contact: May 27, 2009CPS "BEAT TEAM" IS ON THE STREETS OF DOWNTOWN CALGARY Today, the Calgary Police Service, with the Government of Alberta and The City of Calgary, launches a new team of foot patrol officers for the city's downtown core. Consisting of 62 constables and four sergeants, the CPS Beat Team is part of the overall strategy of the Calgary Police Service to target social disorder and crime in the downtown core. Calgary Downtown Foot Patrols Brochure (PDF - 1,167 KB) "We are thankful for the support of The City and the Province, which has allowed us to create 50 new positions, filled primarily by experienced officers," said Chief Rick Hanson. "One of the primary goals of the Beat Team is to ensure the safety of Calgary's downtown area continues throughout the day into the evening hours." "The security of Calgarians is the top priority of Council. Calgary may be a big and growing city, but we will not tolerate crime taking root here," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "That is why last fall's City budget added nearly 300 new police positions to increase public safety in our growing community. Part of this investment includes highly visible foot patrol officers, as well as Violent Crime Suppression Team officers, who work to reduce crime and address social disorder issues in the centre city." Foot patrol officers will be on the streets of downtown Calgary seven days a week. Their role is not only to enforce the law in order to make the area safer, but also to work with the community on crime prevention and reduction strategies. Divided among four geographical areas, officers will each be responsible for liaising with members of the business community, local residents, protective services partners and social and government agencies, to identify problems and collaborate on solutions. "Cities where Albertans feel safe and secure are critical to a strong and vibrant province," said Premier Ed Stelmach. "This government is living up to its commitment to add more police officers to help keep our streets and neighbourhoods safe, in Calgary and elsewhere. While adding more police isn't the only answer to fighting crime, it is a key component of our plan to make all our communities safer, and a key recommendation of the Safe Communities Task Force." Calgary Police Commission Chair Denis Painchaud said, "The Calgary Police Commission, on behalf of the citizens of Calgary, would like to thank both the Province of Alberta and The City of Calgary for recognizing a need on the part of our police and our city, to reduce crime and increase security in the downtown core, and for believing in the solution that was put forward. We are excited to have these additional police officers walking the beat, promoting street level policing and embracing community policing in Calgary." The launch of the foot patrol teams follows Operation Endeavour, which targeted drug dealing and associated crime. "The goal of Operation Endeavour was to combat the drug trade in the downtown core and the crime that accompanies it, by targeting over 200 street-level drug dealers," said Chief Hanson. "We have arrested more than 100 subjects, of which 76 continue to be detained. As well, we have issued warrants for the remainder of the offenders. This has gone a long way towards cleaning up the downtown core, and this expanded team will continue to fight drugs and crime in the area." The Service recognizes that as one hotspot is targeted, some criminal activity may move elsewhere. The CPS constantly monitors hotspots and crime trends throughout Calgary, and deploys resources where needed. The districts surrounding the downtown core have already implemented crime-management strategies in their areas in a proactive approach to address displacement issues. The Service will continue to work with communities throughout the city to address issues of concern to Calgarians
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: May 26, 2009HOUSING IS A PRIORITY FOR THE CITY OF CALGARY - CITY GRANTS CALGARY HOMELESS FOUNDATION $5.96 MILLION The City of Calgary is providing a grant of $5.96 million to the Calgary Homeless Foundation (CHF) to acquire / construct affordable housing units for Calgarians who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier presented Calgary Homeless Foundation CEO Tim Richter with the grant cheque today. A Straight talk about affordable housing (PDF - 2.78 MB) "Our priority with this grant is to create permanent, affordable housing for those facing or living in homelessness", said Mayor Bronconnier. "We need to be giving people a steady hand up by providing solid opportunities for personal growth, confidence-building and achievement. Those types of life skills can't be fostered and sustained in a shelter environment." The Calgary Homeless Foundation will use the grant to acquire and renovate existing residential buildings to create affordable rental housing for singles and couples who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. Some family units may also be included. The buildings will be on "scattered sites" located throughout Calgary and outside the downtown core. Each building will have "mixed rents" with some prices near market, some with deep subsidy, and others elsewhere in the range. The diversity of the community and its residents moves Calgary forward towards a complete and sustainable city. It's about local solutions to local circumstances. Affordable Housing Calgary (PDF - 2.12 MB) "I applaud Mayor Bronconnier and Calgary City Council for this very tangible support for Calgary's 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness", said Tim Richter. "We appreciate the partnership we have with The City and look forward to continuing our partnership to end homelessness in Calgary." The rental units will be a mix of single room occupancy, as well as bachelor and 1 and 2 bedroom units. At least 70 per cent of the units in each building will be rented to households at or below the Core Need Income Threshold (rental payments priced at or less than 30% of income). The grant provided by The City of Calgary is for capital expenditures only. The City and the CHF are making progress on Calgary's 10 Year Plan, having funded approximately 850 additional units of Calgary's affordable housing stock this past year. In addition, The City is channelling $7 million per year (2008-2010) into the New Start rent subsidy program, creating access to another 1,034 dwelling units. More affordable housing in Calgary has been funded this past year than in any previous year for more than a decade. The Government of Alberta, the Government of Canada, and generous Calgarians also contributed to these achievements. Permanent housing with the necessary support is the solution to homelessness. The Calgary Homeless Foundation will ensure appropriate supportive services are provided along with the housing to residents who need them. In partnership with existing Calgary community agencies, services will include in-home support & case management to ensure the housing is safe, stable and can be maintained by the residents. The grant is part of the Alberta Government's Municipal Block Funding Grant for capital development of affordable housing. The City of Calgary received block funding from the provincial department of Housing and Urban Affairs in the 2007 and 2008 budgets, and has assigned funds for specific areas of affordable housing development, including providing grants to community housing agencies, such as the Calgary Homeless Foundation. The City has responded to the critical issue of homelessness and affordable housing for several years - along with the major rent subsidy program, lands have been made available for shelters and housing development. The City continues to develop innovative strategies to increase - and sustain - the supply of affordable housing in Calgary.
About the Calgary Homeless Foundation
Information Links:
Province of Alberta 10 Year Plan to End Homelessness / Affordable Housing programs
The City of Calgary - Affordable Housing
Calgary Homeless Foundation
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: May 21, 2009GOVERNMENTS UNITE TO SUPPORT SPORTS HALL OF FAME IN CALGARY Calgary - Mayor Dave Bronconnier, Canada's Minister of the Environment, Jim Prentice, and Alberta's Minister of Culture and Community Spirit, Lindsay Blackett today announced that residents of Calgary will benefit from up to $30 million in joint federal-provincial-municipal investments to build the new Canada's Sports Hall of Fame facility in Calgary. "Canada's sports legends - athletes, coaches and patrons – now have a place to call home here in Calgary," said Mayor Bronconnier, "This project, supported by all three orders of government and the private sector, is a boost for our local economy, now and over the long term. It's an important step forward for Canadian culture, and celebrating some of our nation's proudest moments in sport." "Today, the Government of Canada joins Alberta and the City of Calgary in a joint investment for a key infrastructure project that will boost our economy and create jobs for Canadians," said Minister Prentice. "Thanks to the strong partnership between our three levels of government, we are working together to ensure that Alberta's economy remains strong and vibrant during these challenging economic times, while also creating a facility that will be enjoyed by many." "Our sporting past forms an important piece of our cultural identity - at the community level, as a province, and as a nation," said Minister Blackett. "Alberta is proud to share in the telling of Canada's sporting history and heritage by being home to Canada's Sports Hall of Fame." Up to $15 million in federal funding will go towards the new Calgary home of Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, along with $10 Million from the Province of Alberta and $5 Million from The City of Calgary. The project is expected to have a significant economic impact in Calgary and help attract visitors to the city. "Canada's Sports Hall of Fame is thrilled with the city of Calgary, the Province of Alberta and the Government of Canada for having the vision to provide the necessary financial support to build this dedicated Hall and Museum at Canada Olympic Park, in Calgary," said Keith Pelley, Chairman, Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. "Canada deserves a distinguished place where we can celebrate and acknowledge our Canadian sport heroes and their amazing stories." Contacts:
May 20, 2009NEW REPORT RANKS CALGARY FIRST PLACE IN GLOBAL PROSPERITY Calgary - A Conference Board of Canada report recently commissioned by Calgary Economic Development (CED) ranks Calgary first in overall economic prosperity compared to 22 other cities around the world. A Global Scorecard on Prosperity (PDF - 1,248 KB) The report, titled A Global Scorecard on Prosperity, measures labour attractiveness and overall economy through a number of indicators. Calgary is ranked the highest in overall economic prosperity, closely followed by Dallas, Edmonton, Madrid and Houston. Low tax rates, affordable housing and a high rate of income and employment growth are cited as the major influences in Calgary's success. Low productivity rates, and a low student-teacher ratio, are flagged as areas for improvement, both of which need to be addressed in order to maintain the city's stature. "Calgary Economic Development is very pleased with the results of this recent survey," said Bruce Graham, president and CEO, CED. "The high quality of life available in Calgary is vital to maintaining our status as a global city of business. There has never been a more important time in our history to focus on collaboration between government, industry and citizens. Calgary's impressive standing in this report is a direct result of our continued, collective investment in our community and its businesses." The Global Scorecard on Prosperity report is part of Calgary Economic Development's ongoing efforts to monitor the city's global competiveness and position. The report brings Calgary's strengths and weaknesses into sharper focus, enabling decision makers to act more strategically. Copies of the report will be posted on the Calgary Economic Development website after the press conference, at www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com.
ABOUT CALGARY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: May 19, 2009GOVERNMENTS PARTNER IN MAJOR PUBLIC TRANSIT INVESTMENT Calgary - Mayor Dave Bronconnier, Jim Prentice, Canada's Minister of the Environment, and Provincial Justice Minister Alison Redford today announced a major investment in funding for Transit projects over the next two years. A total of approximately $270 million will be invested in Transit as a result of this joint initiative by all three orders of government, with a contribution of $90 Million each. Transit Funding Announcement Brochure (PDF - 389 KB) "This is an important partnership by all orders of government," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "We're adding an immediate stimulus for job creation, and investing to improve mobility which has lasting benefits for our economic competitiveness for the future. Expanding our transit network and upgrading our system is vital for the environment and our quality of life." "Investments in public transit will not only create jobs and stimulate the economy, but will also leave the lasting links that will pave the way for Calgary's growth and prosperity in the future," said Minister Prentice. "By attracting more commuters to transit, we will help minimize overall emissions, reduce congestion and help to improve the quality of life and the environment for the residents of this region." "By encouraging Calgarians to use the CTrain, this major investment will help increase traffic safety for both motorists and pedestrians and reduce the province's carbon footprint," added Minister Redford. The transit projects identified as part of the funding partnership initiative include:
Construction of all of these improvements, except for the West Light Rail Transit 11th Street Station, is expected to begin later this year. The West Light Rail Station project is expected to be started in 2010 and finished by the end of 2012.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact:
Ron Collins May 14, 2009MAYOR BRONCONNIER AND NEW YORK MAYOR BLOOMBERG MAKE FRIENDLY WAGER ON NATIONAL LACROSSE LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP GAME Calgary - Mayor Dave Bronconnier and Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today announced a friendly wager on the National Lacrosse League championship game between the Calgary Roughnecks and the New York Titans. The game will take place at Calgary's Pengrowth Saddledome on Friday, May 15th at 7:30 PM MST. If the Roughnecks win, Mayor Bloomberg will send Mayor Bronconnier Irish stew and shepherd's pie from Mary's Celtic Kitchen in Woodlawn, stuffed grape leaves, mousaka and spinach pie from Pinocchio Palace in Astoria, and an assortment of meats and cheeses from Enzo's of Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. The three restaurants are from three of the nine neighborhoods that comprise "Nine in '09," the new initiative Mayor Bloomberg announced earlier this month that encourages residents to explore nine culturally-diverse neighborhoods across the five boroughs. If the Titans win, Mayor Bronconnier will send Mayor Bloomberg a supply of world famous Alberta Beef, Italian Sausage from Spolumbo's Fine Foods and Deli in Inglewood and beer from Calgary's own BigRock Brewery. "I have a feeling that Friday will be the Roughneck's night - no question," said Mayor Bronconnier. "My hat is off to our friend Mayor Bloomberg. He's pulling out all the stops to support his team, offering a taste of some of New York's most interesting neighborhoods. I do feel a bit bad though, I mean it's going to be a lot of work for him to pick up all that stuff for us on Saturday morning!" "We'd be happy to serve up some the world's best food to our friends in Calgary, but I have a hunch that to taste it, they'll need to book a flight to New York," said Mayor Bloomberg. "The Titans have been at the top of their game - and that was before Mayor Bronconnier began waving red meat and beer in front of them. I look forward to a great game and hope the Titans can bring the championship home to New York." Mayor Bronconnier is encouraging Calgarians to fill the 'Dome on Friday night. It's going to be a great game. For ticket information, please visit www.calgaryroughnecks.com.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact:
Andrew Brent May 5, 2009CALGARY MAYOR URGES ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP BY ENERGY CITIES Houston, TX - In the context of emerging policy to address climate change on a global scale, Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier is urging energy cities like Calgary and Houston to be leaders in reducing green house gas emissions. He noted that energy cities have "the most to lose and the most to gain" from changes on the horizon, and therefore need to be at the forefront when implementing policy, encouraging the development of new "green technologies" and championing environmentally friendly methods of producing and using hydro-carbon energy. Mayor Bronconnier's Greater Houston Partnership Speech (PDF - 24 KB) Bronconnier made his remarks today at a lunch hosted by the Greater Houston Partnership in Texas, and applauded the leadership of Mayor Bill White, who has set the goal for Houston to become a renewable energy capital. He noted that this is a goal shared by Calgary, and achieving it will come by engaging the entire community and leveraging the assets of the energy industry. Bronconnier said, "There are few cities better positioned than Calgary and Houston to actually deliver on this goal. We have the corporate infrastructure, the people and the know how to spear-head the development and commercialization of green energy technology." The mayor outlined an impressive list of initiatives currently underway in Houston and Calgary which demonstrate a commitment to a green energy future. Initiatives such as the purchase of "green-power" by these municipalities: Houston is currently the largest municipal purchaser of electricity from renewable sources in the United States, a title which Calgary holds in Canada. Bronconnier highlighted a number of "cutting edge" technologies being piloted by the energy industry which reflect a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Calgary's mayor stressed the importance of these initiatives, noting that, "Energy cities must lead or risk being told to follow." "There is no doubt that green house gas emissions have become one of our most pressing issues," said the mayor, "But if we are willing to be engaged in that discussion, and to continue to show our leadership through the actions of our people, governments and industry, I have no doubt we have the most to gain from the future."
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: May 4, 2009Calgary's Mayor and Calgary Economic Development in Houston Calgary - The Mayor-led delegation is in Houston May 4-6, 2009, to sign the renewal of the two cities' bilateral agreement, promote Calgary as the host of the 2009 World Energy Cities Partnership (WECP) Annual General Meeting and conduct high level business meetings with local companies. Mayor Bronconnier's Mission to Houston, Texas, USA (PDF - 12 KB) Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier and Houston Mayor Bill White are signing the renewal of the Calgary-Houston Bilateral Partnership for Business Growth and Cooperation. This four-year agreement will be renewed on May 5, 2009, and expires in 2013; the initial agreement was signed in 2006. The bilateral agreement promotes business between the two cities, specifically within the key areas of energy, engineering, transport and logistics and life sciences. "This agreement renews our commitment to work closely with Houston to further develop synergies in trade," said Mayor Bronconnier. "We are eager to work together to harness the collaborative opportunities and tremendous potential that exists between our two cities." On May 5, Calgary Economic Development will be co-hosting a WECP reception where Mayor Bronconnier will invite the Mayors of the member cities to participate at the Annual General Meeting in Calgary Oct. 7-10, 2009. John Hankins, VP, Investment and Trade Development, at Calgary Economic Development says this year's WECP Annual General Meeting will be a chance for companies to exchange industry knowledge, develop economic strategies and engage in valuable business development opportunities with international firms. "The World Energy Cities Partnership conference in Calgary will bring together 15 of the world's energy cities; each of them is expected to bring a strong business delegation and companies that participate will have a unique opportunity to discuss and identify business needs with leading global companies in one location." ABOUT CALGARY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Calgary Economic Development (CED) strives to make Calgary the undisputed choice for people and business. As Calgary's lead economic development agency, we work with businesses to facilitate growth, expedite local, national and international business investment and trade development opportunities and promote sustainable economic growth in the Calgary region. For more information on Calgary Economic Development, please visit our website at www.calgaryeconomicdevelopment.com.
For more information contact:
Marc Henry May 1, 2009West Calgary High School Ground Breaking Calgary - Mayor Dave Bronconnier, with representatives from the Calgary Board of Education and Province, broke ground today on the future West Calgary High School. The new facility will replace an aging Ernest Manning High School (EMHS) as part of the West LRT project. West Calgary High School Brochure (PDF - 1,088 KB) "Constructing this school at this time conveys progress for Calgary on a couple of levels," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "It gives Calgary's youth a new, modern learning environment and the West LRT line is moving ahead on schedule. This project couldn't have happened had it not been for the strong relationship The City has with its partners." Under the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding, 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 Spring 2011), so there will be no disruption in educational programming. CBE Board Chair Pat Cochrane commented, "The CBE is very excited for the 1,500 students who will attend the new high school as it will be a state-of-the-art facility equipped with 21st century learning technologies. It's the CBE's priority to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful once they leave high school." Alderman Connelly, who represents Ward 6, voiced his gratitude on behalf of his constituents, "The West Calgary High School project demonstrates Council's commitment to ensure we accommodate the city's growth west of Sarcee Trail. By this opening, we are able to accommodate more students today and together we can support their learning experiences well into the future." West Calgary High School will be conveniently located in a rapidly growing area of the city that already has several education institutions in the area, a recreation facility across the street, and the future 69th Street S.W. LRT station nearby. There will be ample public transit service to the school through Calgary Transit feeder buses and CTrain. The existing Ernest Manning High School site will become a major transit-oriented development, which includes the Westbrook LRT station.
City of Calgary Contact:
Calgary Board of Education Contact:
June 24, 2009US CONSUL GENERAL "WHITE-HATTED" Calgary - At the media event at the Historic City Hall, Mayor Bronconnier officially welcomed and "white-hatted" Ms. Laura Lochman - new Consul General of the United States of America in Calgary and her spouse Mr. Joseph Schaefer. Ms. Lochman's tenure as the next Consul General of U.S. in Calgary began on June 23, 2009 following the departure of Consul General Huffaker on March 29, 2009. She is the second woman to be the Consul General in Calgary in the 103-year of history of the American consular post. Consulate General of U.S. serves Alberta, Saskatchewan and North West Territories and also handles consular affairs for Manitoba. The Consulate has a staff of approximately 80 members made up of American officers, and locally hired Americans and Canadians. It counts as part of its team colleagues in U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency at airport pre-clearance facilities in Winnipeg, Edmonton and Calgary. "We are pleased today to welcome Consul General Lochman with her family to Calgary. The Consulate General of the United States in Calgary serves in many important capacities including areas of visa processing, commercial and economic relations, and public affairs. We are grateful for having them here and we very much appreciate their role in serving our city." said Mayor Bronconnier.
Consul General Biography From 2000-2004, Ms. Lochman served as Deputy Economic Counselor and Environment, Science and Technology Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Madrid, Spain. From 2004 to 2007, she served at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russia as Deputy Economic Counselor and Chief of the Trade and Investment Unit. Ms. Lochman most recently spent two years at the Department of State in Washington, D.C. as Deputy Director of the Office of Central European Affairs. The office coordinates U.S. Government relations with Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Switzerland. Ms. Lochman graduated with a B.A. in International Studies and French from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She also studied at the Universite de Montpellier, France. Her foreign languages include French, Spanish, Portuguese and Russian.
For more information contact:
Michelle Cook June 24, 2009
IMPROVING EMERGENCY RESPONSE IN WEST CALGARY: Calgary - To meet the growing demand for Fire Department services on the west side of the city, the Calgary Fire Department is officially opening a new fire station in Valley Ridge today. To further reinforce City Council's commitment to public safety, the Fire Department will see seven new stations and two new facilities over the next five years, which are part of a total capital budget of $280 million. Valley Ridge Fire Station Brochure (PDF - 301 KB) The Mayor said, "The opening of this $11.9-million facility is an excellent example of City Council's strong commitment to Calgary's protective services. This new fire station will substantially reduce response times for the West Calgary communities of Crestmont, Valley Ridge, Greenwood/Greenbriar and Canada Olympic Park, and accommodate future development." Valley Ridge Fire Station No. 35, which was designed to take up less than one acre in order to reduce loss of green space in the community, has three bays that can accommodate up to six full-size fire vehicles. The17,900-square-foot building on two levels has been built with numerous environmentally sustainable features such as solar panels to help provide hot water, landscaping that requires less water, and a cistern to capture roof rainwater and provide irrigation water. Mayor Dave Bronconnier will be on hand at 12:30 p.m. June 24 to officially open Station No. 35 at 11280 Valley Ridge Blvd. N.W. by ringing the station's new brass bell. Fire Chief Bruce Burrell said, "Since 2005, our call volume in this district has increased by more than 30 per cent. The majority of the 900 calls that we received in the four years of 2005 through 2008 were medical calls where a fast response can mean the difference between life and death. In that time, we also had 38 fires. This station is of critical importance to west Calgary." The station became operational May 6. Since then, early comparisons show the average total response time to incidents in the Valley Ridge station district is 22 per cent (or one minute and 50 seconds) faster. Media Contacts:
Bruce Burrell
Marc Henry June 23, 2009GENESIS CENTRE TO BE A MODEL OF COMMUNITY WELLNESS Calgary - Construction has begun on a new and unique facility that is expected to serve as a model for future community-based wellness centres. The Genesis Centre of Community Wellness Brochure (PDF - 1,259 KB) Slated to open in fall 2011, the new $120-million Genesis Centre of Community Wellness will house branches of the Calgary Public Library and YMCA Calgary, a social services centre, community gathering places as well as indoor and outdoor sports facilities for individuals of all ages and abilities to enjoy. The Genesis Centre of Community Wellness will serve several northeast communities with culturally diverse residents, a rapidly growing youth population, and the highest enrolment in minor soccer in Calgary. The area's youth was represented at today's groundbreaking by members of the Karbani family. "It's going to be awesome!" says Zakiyya (age 15), who along with siblings Ayesha (17), Muhammed (12) and Ammarah (9) plan to make good use of the Genesis Centre's pool, library, soccer fields, fitness facilities and variety of programs. "This is a unique project providing more than just vital recreation infrastructure," says Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "With its human services component, the Genesis Centre of Community Wellness will also offer a vast array of programs to support immigrants, youth, seniors, multicultural groups and others. These residents will be able to learn, share their traditions, get information and counseling, and create an even more vibrant community than what already exists." The Genesis Centre of Community Wellness represents 15 years of hard work, planning and collaboration by community volunteers with the Northeast Centre of Community Society (NECCS). This grassroots organization has representatives from the communities of Saddle Ridge, Taradale and Martindale and the Calgary Soccer Federation. "Our dream is to create a gather place where diverse groups and residents can share in recreational, educational, social and cultural activities," says Carol Steiner, NECCS President. "With construction ready to begin, our dream is a giant step closer to reality." Funding for the $120-million project is provided by:
The Genesis Centre of Community Wellness sits on a 10-hectare site located near the Saddletowne Shopping Centre. The facility is named after Genesis Land Development Corporation, which committed $5 million to NECCS for the new centre. NECCS has also launched a campaign to secure volunteers and $2 million to support enhanced features for the community portion of the complex.
Public Contact Information: June 19, 2009CALGARY REGIONAL PARTNERSHIP ENDORSES LONG-TERM GROWTH PLAN Cochrane, Alberta - The Calgary Metropolitan Plan (CMP) was approved at the General Assembly of the Calgary Regional Partnership held at Lynnwood Ranch on June 19, 2009. A New Plan For The Calgary Region (PDF - 2.43 MB) The final vote was 47 in favour of the motion to approve the CMP and 15 against - well beyond the two-thirds majority that is required to pass such a motion. Linda Bruce, Chair of the Calgary Regional Partnership and Mayor of Airdrie was delighted with the outcome of the vote, saying - "Today is the culmination of four years of tireless work and public participation that has involved thousands of residents, elected officials, municipal staff and various stakeholders. I am confident that the CMP will preserve the region's environment, guide growth and establish sustainable infrastructure while preserving our diverse communities and quality life". The Honourable Dr. Ted Morton, Minister of Sustainable Resources Development opened the meeting by congratulating the Calgary Regional Partnership on the completion of the CMP. Minster Morton said "that the CMP's goals mirror the goals of the Province's Land Use Framework." He encouraged the meeting of 150 Mayors, Councillors and municipal staff to "focus on the parts of the Plan that can be agreed on and not to obsess over the issues that could not be agreed on". Following Minister Morton's address, a lively debate ensued with amendments being proposed by the MDs of Rocky View, MD of Foothills and Wheatland County. Cochrane Mayor Truper McBride moved the motion to support the CMP. While doing that he encouraged members to - "Accept that we do not get all of what we want, but we all get something that we did not have before". He went on to say – "The CMP is vital to address our shared vision of enriched communities, healthy environments, sustainable infrastructure and a prosperous regional economy". The adopted Calgary Metropolitan Plan will now be formally forwarded to the Province for its consideration for adoption under that Municipal Government Act and/or the Land Stewardship Act; while members have 90 days to consider their membership in the Plan and the Partnership.
For more information, please contact: BACKGROUNDER to the Calgary Regional Partnership (CRP) and the Calgary Metropolitan Plan (CMP) The Calgary Regional Partnership (CRP) Incorporated is an association of 18 communities from Banff to Strathmore, Crossfield to Nanton, with Calgary and 13 other municipalities in between representing 1.2 million residents on 15,000 square kilometers of unique landscape. The Calgary Metropolitan Plan (CMP):
The Calgary Metropolitan Plan is required under Alberta's new Land Stewardship Act which prescribes the following:
Public participation regarding the CMP includes:
The Calgary Regional Partnership's vision: We are working together to live in balance with a healthy environment, in enriched communities, with sustainable infrastructure and a prosperous economy.
For more information on the CMP and the CRP: June 18, 2009Mayor Dave Bronconnier delivers last blue cart Calgary - Mayor Dave Bronconnier delivered the last blue cart today to a family in the northeast community of Coventry Hills, marking the end of cart deliveries over the past 15 weeks. The deliveries ended on schedule allowing Blue Cart recycling collection to begin the week of June 30 in the northeast. "Moving forward with Blue Cart recycling was the right decision - right for our environment and right for the long-term interests of our City," said Mayor Bronconnier. "Calgarians are using the new system and they really like it." From the start of the service on April 21 until the end of May, The City's Waste & Recycling Services collected about 7000 tonnes of recyclables from blue carts and community recycling depots. That's the equivalent of 90 semi-trailer trucks. "We are on target to exceed our goal of doubling the amount of recyclables we collect in a year," said Paula Magdich, Blue Cart Program Leader. "We expect to collect about 80,000 tonnes of materials annually." The City provides Blue Cart recycling service to single family homes up to and including fourplexes. Collection is on the same day and in the same location (back lane or front curb) as garbage. All recyclables go into the cart - no more sorting - and plastics 1-7 are included. Community recycling depots will remain in place and are being converted to accept plastics and not require sorting. Each blue cart comes with an information package explaining what materials can be recycled as well as proper placement of the cart for collection. As the service uses trucks equipped with automated arms to pick up the blue carts, residents must leave adequate space around the carts on collection day. For more information about Blue Cart recycling, visit The City’s interactive website at calgary.ca/bluecart.
Media Contacts: June 16, 2009
PREPARING FOR ANY EMERGENCY: Calgary - As Calgary marks the fourth anniversary of the most severe flooding in its history, construction commences on a new Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) to ensure we are ready for any emergency in the future. Calgary's New Emergency Operations Centre (PDF - 282 KB) When it opens in early 2012, the 53,000-square-foot building will become a command centre where representatives of more than 30 partner agencies can work together during a disaster or major emergency. The state-of-the-art centre will house Calgary Emergency Management Agency staff throughout the year. Mayor Dave Bronconnier will be on hand at 11 a.m., June 16 to help pour one of many loads of concrete needed to build the new facility at 617 - 1 Street NE. The EOC is designed to protect Calgarians by serving as a hub for municipal operations during a major emergency or disaster. "Having the ability to respond during emergencies is essential for any government. The floods in 2005 made it clear that the Emergency Operations Centre built sixty years ago was not adequate to meet the needs of Calgary today. This facility will meet our needs well into the future. It's a bit like insurance - you hope and pray you'll never use it, but when you do, it is vital," the Mayor said. Bruce Burrell, Director of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency, said, "The new $54-million facility is vital to protecting the lives of Calgarians during a major emergency. The EOC is designed to be completely self-sustaining for 72-hours or three days during an emergency." The building will contain a Geographic Information System (GIS) to generate maps with embedded information. The Centre will also take in feeds from City traffic and police helicopter cameras to gather up-to-the-minute information on any emergency. "By working together with the community, we've come up with a concept that we believe works well for both Calgarians and the community," said Tom Sampson, Deputy Chief of Emergency Management at the Calgary Fire Department. "In an effort to lessen the environmental footprint and ensure a better fit with the residential community and adjacent park, the new EOC will be built primarily underground."
For more information, please contact: June 13, 2009MAYOR OPENS CROWFOOT STATION Calgary - Today, Mayor Dave Bronconnier celebrated the newest leg of Calgary's NW LRT extension by opening the Crowfoot CTrain Station. This extension brings Calgary's LRT line west from Dalhousie and is another step in upgrading the Crowchild Trail LRT corridor. In recognition of this significant milestone, Mayor Bronconnier spoke of the value of government partnerships in accomplishing projects of this magnitude. Crowfoot C-Train Backgrounder (PDF - 2,651 KB) "I am pleased to announce that on Monday June 15, Calgarians will enjoy the most recent step in enhancing The City's LRT system. Strategic investment in transportation infrastructure by all levels of government ensures Calgary continues to provide the second-to-none quality of life that we enjoy in our city." Mayor Bronconnier went on to say, "Since 2001, in partnership with other levels of government, we have invested over $300 million in improvements along the Crowchild Trail LRT corridor. The City plans to continue with these investments to support the needs of Calgarians as they travel to their jobs, families and across the city in a safe, efficient and reliable way." Approved by Council in 2005, the NW LRT Extension to Crowfoot includes enhancements to both the LRT system and the transportation corridor. Crowchild Trail now has greater capacity havening been widened from four to six lanes. Portions of the roadway are lower than their original elevation by five metres to accommodate new vehicle and pedestrian bridges. Construction of two new interchanges occurred at Nose Hill Drive and Sarcee Trail. The extension of the LRT from Dalhousie Station included seven km of track, construction of the platform, Crowfoot Station and parking facilities to accommodate over 1300 vehicles. This project is significant in scope and size, was completed within its budget ($220 million) and resulted in several high quality pieces of infrastructure. This extension will augment The City's NW LRT system by enhancing a service already enjoyed by 101,000 Calgarians each day. By bringing the system closer to users, The City is providing convenient access; continuing to meet growth demands and is shortening commute times. Each of the elements of this project is greater than the sum of their parts by contributing to the City's goal of improving mobility for all Calgarians. "This project shows how effective partnerships between governments can make a difference. Working with the Provincial and Federal governments, The City is improving mobility on our roads and transit service. Soon, work will begin on the Rocky Ridge LRT extension and the Crowchild Trail/Stoney Trail interchange. These improvements will ensure Calgarians continue to achieve the quality of life they deserve," concluded the Mayor.
For media interviews and inquiries, please contact: June 1, 2009
BUILDING INFRASTRUCTURE. ENSURING ACCOUNTABILITY Calgary - Over the next five years, more than $6 billion in infrastructure construction will be taking place in Calgary, and citizens, funding partners and suppliers can keep track of this investment through a new website www.calgaryinfrastructure.ca launched today. This website gives Calgarians and other stakeholders a window into 125 priority projects now underway in the city, with more projects to be added over the next few months. calgaryinfrastructure.ca Brochure (PDF - 764 KB) "This is our accountability report," says Calgary Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "By viewing the website, you can find out where the money is coming from and, more importantly, where it is going. You can see improvements in every aspect of Calgary, from light rail transit lines and vehicles to water treatment, roads and bridges, parks, recreation facilities, and cultural projects." The major feature of the website is an interactive map that pinpoints 125 capital projects currently funded by The City's approved 2009 - 2013 capital budget. Each pinpoint displays the project's details, construction schedule and status, sources of funding and project costs. As projects develop, photos and progress reports will also populate the website. "This is an important tool for The City of Calgary," says Brad Stevens, General Manager of Asset Management & Capital Works. "It's a very detailed and transparent project tracker that allows anyone, from me as a manager to you as a taxpayer to get the answer to: are we on time and on budget?" The website also shows where the funding for each project and the entire capital plan comes from. The federal and provincial governments contribute a significant portion of The City of Calgary's capital funding, which is making it possible for The City to upgrade and build new, environmentally sustainable infrastructure that will serve Calgarians, Albertans and Canadians for many years to come. "We couldn't do this alone. Six billion dollars is a massive investment in our community by all three levels of government and a very significant economic stimulus during a time when the construction industry isn't doing as well as previously. This investment is expected to provide a boost for the local economy by creating more than 51,000 jobs over five years," says Mayor Bronconnier. The website was created by The City of Calgary Customer Service & Communications with Infrastructure Services and assisted by all city departments. It was built in-house at a cost of $25,000, funded from the 2009 Mayor's Office budget. The information on the web-site will be updated frequently to reflect progress on capital projects and note changes in the capital plan moving forward. The website currently indentifies 125 priority projects, with the remaining projects in the approved capital budget to be added over the next few months. By the end of the summer, some 500 projects will be mapped and detailed. For public information: Call 3-1-1 Media Contact:
Marc Henry
July 27, 2009COUNCIL APPROVES PEACE BRIDGE Calgary City Council today approved the name "Peace Bridge" for the new pedestrian bridge which will span the Bow River. The name recognizes this important district of the City, directly adjacent to "Peace Park" located in Eau Claire, and part of the Memorial Drive/Parkway upgrades currently being undertaken in this area. The bridge itself will be a 130 m long, 6.2 m wide free-span structure crossing the Bow River, providing much needed pedestrian and cycling access at this heavily used area on the city pathway system. It is expect that more than 1.3 million Calgarians will use the bridge annually. Construction of The Peace Bridge is expected to begin later this Fall and will be completed in 2010. For more information, please visit www.calgary.ca
July 22, 20092009 CENSUS RESULTS Calgary - The 2009 Civic Census results for the period from April 2008 to April 2009 show that Calgary's population continues to increase at a similar pace to last year's results. Calgary's population grew from 1,042,892 in April 2008 to 1,065,455 in April 2009, an increase of 22,563. Specific results from the 2009 Civic Census Community Growth
Net migration and natural increase The City of Calgary's Population Growth 1999-2009 (PDF - 115 KB) 2008-2009 Calgary Census Overview (PDF - 110 KB) Calgary 10 Year Population Growth vs. 2009 Alberta Municipal Census (PDF - 114 KB) Over the past 12 months, 12,920 more people moved into Calgary than moved away, an increase of 479 over 2008. Natural increase (the result of births over deaths) was 9,643 persons, down 52 from last year’s figure of 9,695. Housing The growth in housing stock shows 5,666 dwellings, a decrease of 7,020 from April 2008. The number of vacant dwelling units has increased from 9,199 in 2008 to 13,012 in 2009. The city's overall vacancy rate is 3.08%, up from 2.23% in April 2008. The number of housing units, both existing and under construction, increased from 432,997 to 438,663. Of the 409,881 occupied dwellings in the city, 291,608 (71.14%) are owner-occupied. The Civic Census results for this year are available online at http://tinyurl.com/nfzojm (mid-afternoon July 22, 2009). Media Contacts:
Barbara Clifford
Leah Kemppainen, Communication Strategist July 05, 2009(Calgary) - Today, long-time citizen Mrs. Bennie Panaro and Calgary Transit celebrate significant milestones - their 100th birthdays. Mayor Dave Bronconnier congratulated Mrs. Panaro and Calgary Transit for achieving this important milestone. “A century is an amazing milestone, and today we mark a double celebration - 100 years of serving citizens for Calgary Transit and Bennie’s 100th birthday,” said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. “I’ve seen pictures of the early days of Calgary Transit, but Mrs. Panaro is able to tell us about it first hand, and as a long-time transit customer she can tell us from experience. Bennie, Happy Birthday and thanks for inviting us to be part of your big day, and for being part of our big day at Calgary Transit.” Mrs. Panaro is a long-time Calgary Transit customer and even today, at the age of 100, still rides the bus. To assist with the celebration, Calgary Transit chartered a bus to take Mrs. Panaro to the Montgomery Community Centre where her family and friends gathered in her honour. “We are happy and honoured to celebrate our centennial with Mrs. Panaro as she celebrates her 100th birthday,” added Calgary Transit Director Fred Wong. -30- Media Contact :
Ron B. Collins
August 29, 2009RAMSAY STATION OFFICIALLY OPENED Calgary - Today the new Calgary Police Service Ramsay Station was officially opened during a community celebration. Acting Chief Jim Hornby was joined by Mayor Dave Bronconnier, MLA Art Johnston and Calgary Police Commission Chair Denis Painchaud, as well as many community members, to officially open the new station. Ramsay Station (PDF - 930 KB) Located at 1010 26 Ave. S.E., this new, 36,000 square-foot-facility was built to accommodate CPS and community needs, including community meeting rooms, front-counter reporting, public parking and space to house a growing number of officers serving the downtown area. "As a Service dedicated to the concept of community policing, our district offices and community stations located throughout the city are vital in connecting with Calgarians," said Acting Chief Jim Hornby. "This new Ramsay Station not only provides an opportunity for people to report incidents and get important crime prevention information, it is also an excellent space for community groups to meet, and to work together with police to make our city as safe as possible. We thank the Province of Alberta and The City of Calgary for their ongoing efforts to provide the resources necessary to maximize public safety in this city." The Ramsay Station was completed at the end of March 2009, and is the base for the front-line officers working in the district's five zones, as well as the General Investigations Unit and the Violent Crime Suppression Team. "The City of Calgary has made major commitments to the safety and security of Calgarians. The Ramsay Station, providing space in which officers can work towards the safety of the community and Calgarians can meet and access police services, is one part of that commitment," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "The City has added significant resources to the downtown core, to not only enforce the law in order to make the area safer, but also to work with the community on crime prevention and reduction strategies. This new station will play an important role in these efforts." The cost of the facility was approximately $19 million, provided by The City of Calgary through the province's Alberta Municipal Infrastructure Program. "As a retired police officer, I know how important police facilities are to the members who work in them and the citizens who access their services," said MLA Art Johnston. "This new station will no doubt serve both the community and the Calgary Police Service well, and the Government of Alberta is proud to have contributed to this impressive building." The building was designed to meet requirements for a "Silver LEED" (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System) designation. To ensure that the public can continue to report incidents or access information within the downtown core, the CPS has also opened a satellite office in Victoria Park, in the Ribtor Building (east) at 334 11 Ave. S.E. This Victoria Park Station also houses the Mountain Bike Unit, and the 68 constables and sergeants of the newly launched Beat Patrol Team. Calgarians may go to either downtown station for general information, or to report crime or collision. "This district office, working in conjunction with the Victoria Park Station, will provide exceptional service to residents of the surrounding communities; improving police operations, increasing police visibility and promoting positive interactions between citizens and police," said Calgary Police Commission Chair, Denis Painchaud. "The increased interactions between Calgarians and the police, which this new office will encourage, will go hand in hand with the Calgary Police Service's increased presence and its ability to prevent and combat crime, making Calgary an even safer place to live."
Media Contact: The contact number for the Ramsay Station is 403-567-6100, and the Victoria Park Station can be reached at 403-567-5500. Both offices are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. A full list of district offices, community stations and contact numbers can be found in the Blue Pages of the Calgary and area phone directory, and online at www.calgarypolice.ca. August 28, 2009MAYOR INVITES CALGARIANS AND GLOBAL VISITORS TO CULTURE MONTH Calgary - Today Mayor Dave Bronconnier proclaimed September Culture Month, an opportunity to celebrate and experience the diversity talent within Calgary's arts and creative industries scene, and invited people to enjoy kick-off to the celebration, the WorldSkills Cultural Celebration, which runs August 29 through September 5. "Like many world-class cities, Calgary has a thriving arts community. Culture Month gives us the opportunity to showcase why Calgary was once again named the most cultured city in Canada," said Mayor Bronconnier. "What better way to kick off the month than during WorldSkills Calgary 2009, a chance to show the world the first-class talent we have in our city?" Culture Month is an exciting month-long celebration that profiles performances, presentations and art in all forms. During the month there is the First Thursday celebration in the Cultural District, ArtCity Festival, A Taste of the CPO, Stylocity, a new downtown fashion event, and Alberta Arts Days, along with the Mayor's Evening for Business and the Arts, which recognizes the partnerships and connections between business and the arts in our city and reflects the vibrant and refreshing spirit that the arts bring to our community. Closing out the month and leading into October is the 10th annual Calgary International Film Festival(CIFF). The WorldSkills Cultural Celebration is a week-long festival that welcomes participants and spectators from around the world to this global skills, trades and technology competition. Olympic Plaza and Stampede Park will come alive with music, dance, visual arts and theatrical performances from local and national artists. The celebration includes a kick-off concert on August 29, an Artisan Village at Olympic Plaza, an afternoon of juggling, and a carnival-themed concert on September 5. "We're thrilled to be part of launching Culture Month as a way to celebrate Calgary's thriving arts sector," said Terry Rock, President & CEO of Calgary Arts Development. "Calgary's arts scene is becoming known nationally and internationally as one to watch, and it's time for us to start taking notice of this as a city. We hope Calgarians and visitors will see Culture Month as an opportunity to learn more about our city's arts and cultural scene." For more information on the Culture Month, visit CalgaryCulture.com, the one-stop source for arts and culture listings in Calgary. The complete line-up of events for the WorldSkills Cultural Celebration is available at calgary.ca/worldskills. For more information on the WorldSkills Cultural Celebration:
Public Contact Information:
Media Contact Information: For more information on Culture Month:
Public information and event listings:
Media Contact:
For more information about WorldSkills Calgary 2009:
September 23, 2009CALGARY POLICE SERVICES WESTWINDS CAMPUSCalgary - Today, Calgary Police Service Chief Rick Hanson was joined at a flag-raising ceremony by Premier Ed Stelmach, Mayor Dave Bronconnier, and Calgary Police Commission Chair Denis Painchaud, to celebrate the acquisition of a site for a new police operations centre. Located on the former Nortel Campus in northeast Calgary, the CPS Westwinds Campus is currently comprised of two buildings on 60 acres of land, with room to develop additional facilities. There is currently 650,000 square feet of existing building space, with the ability to expand to one million square feet. Westwinds Campus Backgrounder (PDF - 771 KB) The Calgary Police Service officially took possession of the site this past June. Renovation work on one of the buildings has since begun. "We know the Calgary Police Service has outgrown its current space, and it is important that police services are consolidated as much as possible. Together with the funds we have provided for much-needed additional police officers, our support for the Westwinds Campus will further enable the Calgary Police Service to maintain Calgary as a safe place to live, work, and raise families," said Premier Ed Stelmach. "The creation of the new Calgary Police Service Westwinds Campus is a major milestone in the Service's proud history of serving citizens," said Mayor Dave Bronconnier. "As an agency that serves a city of over one million people, the Calgary Police Service requires space that meets its needs now, and into the future. The City of Calgary is pleased to have helped acquire this impressive site." The cost of the CPS Westwinds Campus is approximately $125 million, including the initial $100 million property purchase, and $25 million in post-project costs and renovations. The project is funded in partnership by the province and city, with $106.5 million from the Municipal Sustainability Initiative, and an additional $18.5 million from The City of Calgary directly. "This is an incredible opportunity for the Calgary Police Service," said Chief Rick Hanson. "I'd like to thank the Province of Alberta and the City of Calgary for funding this project, and the Calgary Police Commission for supporting our need for space that meets our current and future requirements." This facility will allow the CPS to bring together areas of the Service that are currently spread among 14 buildings across the city. This means easier access to resources, while decreasing operating costs. "This site will meet our needs for the next 50 years, and I have no doubt it will make police work and investigations more efficient, while enhancing communication within the Service," said Chief Hanson. The CPS Westwinds Campus West Building will house various investigative areas, while the East Building will be home to executive and administrative functions, recruiting and training, the Fleet Services garage, as well as media and public services. "These buildings will serve our city and the men and women who proudly work within them for years to come," said Calgary Police Commission Chair Denis Painchaud. "This campus will allow our police service to flourish and grow into the future. We at the Calgary Police Commission are excited about this new facility and look forward to the positive changes the Westwinds Campus will promote." Certain areas of the Service will continue to operate in their current facilities. This includes the district offices and community police stations, as well as the Traffic and Support Sections. The Arrest Processing Section will remain in the downtown Administration Building for now, while the best location option for processing arrests is evaluated. A new Identification Section (crime scenes) facility is currently being built next to the District 1 Ramsay Station. The Westwinds Campus is located east of Barlow Trail, off McKnight Boulevard. The facility is located close to CTrain and bus routes, and there will be parking for staff and the public. The targeted move completion dates are June 2010 for the West Building and June 2011 for the East Building. Media Contacts: CPS Media Line - 403-206-7979
Marc Henry September 16, 2009CMLC Unveils the East Village Master Plan
|
Newsroom
|
