Sunnyside Flood Barrier now operational, protecting 2.4 km stretch against major flooding
Calgary's $73 million flood defence across a decade of planning is complete, shielding Sunnyside and Hillhurst from one-in-100-year events.
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Calgary's Sunnyside Flood Barrier is now operational, shielding Sunnyside and Hillhurst from flooding with protection against a one-in-100-year flood event — the kind with a one per cent chance of occurring in any given year.
The barrier stretches 2.4 kilometres and cost $73 million over more than a decade from initial planning through completion. It combines permanent flood walls, sheet pile walls, demountable flood walls, and deployable flood protection systems — multiple approaches layered into a single defence.
Mayor Jeromy Farkas said the project "strengthens our ability to withstand future flood events while creating lasting community spaces that Sunnyside residents and visitors can enjoy for generations to come." The barrier was guided by community input emphasizing the importance of preserving connections to the Bow River and honouring the neighbourhood's history.
Beyond the engineering, the project added nine new seating areas, two food truck pads, improved pathways for walking, wheeling, and cycling, and new trees including Memorial poplar clone trees. Four key public spaces were enhanced: Calgary Soldiers' Memorial, Peace Bridge North Shore, 7 Street N.W. lookout, and Prince's Island Pedestrian Bridge & Bow River access.
The barrier is a key component of Calgary's broader Flood Resilience Plan. Since the 2013 flood, the city has invested significantly in protection infrastructure.
The facts
How long is the Sunnyside Flood Barrier?
The barrier stretches 2.4 kilometres across Sunnyside and Hillhurst.
How much did the Sunnyside Flood Barrier cost?
The project cost $73 million over more than a decade from initial planning through completion.
What level of flood protection does the barrier provide?
The Sunnyside Flood Barrier protects against a one-in-100-year flood event, which has a one per cent chance of occurring in any given year.
What amenities were added as part of the barrier project?
The project added nine new seating areas, two food truck pads, improved pathways for walking, wheeling, and cycling, and new trees including Memorial poplar clone trees.
