City fast-tracks $2.4M repair push for tree-damaged sidewalks

Calgary is spending $2.4 million to repair nearly 300 sidewalks damaged by tree roots, a problem that's become a genuine safety hazard for kids walking to school, seniors, and anyone using wheelchairs or scooters.

In Sundance, broken pavement near a local school creates treacherous conditions year-round — worse in winter when ice builds up in cracks. Carol, a wheelchair user, says she routinely avoids entire routes because the bumps and uneven surfaces make travel impossible.

Ward 14 Councillor Landon Johnston pushed for the accelerated timeline after hearing from residents about tripping hazards and the difficulty of clearing snow and ice from damaged sections. Council approved the funding, which Johnston says will come from reserve funds and won't affect future property taxes.

"The safety of our residents across the city is one of our top priorities," Johnston said in a statement to CityNews. "It also makes it much harder to keep them clear of ice and snow, making it dangerous to get the mail or walk to the store or bus stop in the winter."

The work begins in June with tree removals — dead or dying trees whose roots have buckled the concrete will come out first. Sidewalk replacements start in August. The city expects to finish all tree removals and roughly half the sidewalk work by year's end, with the rest completed in 2027. Replacement trees will be planted this year where possible, otherwise in spring 2027.

Highest needs are concentrated in the southeast, northeast, and north quadrants. Residents in those areas should expect construction crews in their neighborhoods over the next 18 months.