City drops housing and climate from core priorities
Calgary is narrowing its focus to public safety, transit, and infrastructure for the remainder of 2026.
Calgary city administration is shifting focus to just three core areas for the rest of 2026: public safety, transit, and infrastructure. Housing, climate strategy, downtown strategy, and the Prairie Economic Gateway are being transitioned out of the Priority Implementation program, according to a memo obtained by LiveWire Calgary.
The city said these areas are leaving the program because they've achieved "significant results to-date," providing momentum for continuation within the organization. Housing achieved record starts and occupancies in 2025. The downtown strategy has seen property values increase $1.8 billion since 2022. Climate efforts have secured $250 million in external funding from other orders of government.
But councillors offered mixed reactions to the de-prioritization. Ward 10 Coun. Andre Chabot said it shouldn't be read as these items no longer mattering — many have already been funded and actioned. Ward 5 Coun. Raj Dhaliwal said he's torn between understanding and surprise.
The shift comes as Calgary prepares for the 2027-2030 budget this November. Earlier this year, council endorsed six priority budget areas, though recent council decisions have reduced funding for some formerly key initiatives, including climate spending and downtown office conversion support.