The City of Calgary is announcing our plan to implement a new series of recommendations to improve safety and vibrancy in downtown Calgary.
Late last fall, Mayor Jyoti Gondek brought together a group of downtown leaders called the Downtown Safety Leadership Table to help identify ways to enhance the downtown experience for all. In March of 2024, the Downtown Safety Leadership Table released their final report and associated 28 recommendations to improve downtown safety and the visitor experience and increase supports for at-risk individuals. The City of Calgary is now ready to implement those recommendations.
“The recommendations put forth by the Downtown Safety Leadership Table are a blueprint and commitment for improvement,” says Mayor Gondek. “As we implement these 28 key initiatives, we are forging a future where every Calgarian can take pride in a downtown that is safe and inclusive for all. The Safety Leadership Table’s collaborative effort underscores the power of convening diverse perspectives, highlighting the importance of coming together to address complex challenges.”
“We are pleased to say that work is already underway or will begin on all 28 recommendations and is expected to be completed within the timeline identified, with 11 recommendations expected to be completed within the year,” says Kay Choi, Community Safety & Wellbeing Lead with The City of Calgary. “Eight will need further resources or funding to implement. A review of how these recommendations should be funded is already underway.”
Steps have already been taken to action things like an increased uniformed officer presence and coordination; safety, maintenance and cleanliness improvements of public spaces; and other resource supports for those experiencing vulnerabilities.
“With Council’s ongoing focus and investments in community safety and wellbeing, Administration is well positioned to work with our partners to act on the recommendations put forward,” continued Choi. “We are committed to a Calgary where everyone feels safe, connected, supported and that they belong.”
City of Calgary Administration will provide updates later in 2024 on the progress of the implementation plan, and individual project updates will occur as recommendations are implemented.
Links to the implementation plan and a full list of recommendations can be found at Calgary.ca/dslt.
