How Should Calgary Support Businesses During City Construction?

Calgary is creating a policy to help businesses survive when City construction projects disrupt their streets. Think blocked sidewalks, lost parking, and customers who can't find the front door. The City has tested things like temporary parking, better signage, and dedicated liaisons. Now they want to lock in what works.

Why This Matters

Own a shop on a street that's being torn up? You know the pain. Construction can tank sales for months. This policy could mean the difference between staying open and closing up. Even as a customer, you've probably given up on a business because the sidewalk was blocked or parking vanished.

What Could Change

The City could be required to assess business impacts before breaking ground. Dedicated liaisons might become standard for major projects. Businesses could get guaranteed temporary parking solutions and marketing support during construction. Clear timelines and communication protocols would be locked into policy.

Key Issues

How can the City better plan for business needs before construction starts?
What communication and relationship-building approaches work best?
How should the City support customer access and safety during construction?
What measures help businesses maintain revenue during disruptions?

How to Participate

Review the What We Heard Reports from previous phases to understand what businesses and customers have said so far.
Check the project page for updates on Phase 4 reveal sessions starting January 2026.
Contact the project team at cbr@calgary.ca or call (403) 852-6570 with questions or to share your experience.

Submit Your Input

Draft Email

Email Template

Dear Business-Friendly Construction Policy Team,

I am writing regarding Calgary's Business-Friendly Construction Policy development.

I [support / have concerns about / want to suggest improvements to] the City's approach because:
[Your reason - even one sentence counts]

My connection to this issue:
[Are you a business owner affected by construction? A customer? A contractor?]

What would help most during City construction:
[Your suggestions based on your experience]

On communication and relationships:
[How could the City better keep businesses informed?]

Thank you for considering my feedback.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

Questions Being Asked (4)

How can the City think about business from the start of construction planning?
What makes for strong relationships between the City and affected businesses?
How should clear and timely information be shared during construction?
What makes it safe and comfortable for visitors during construction?