The City of Calgary says it is ready to implement the more than two-dozen recommendations of the Downtown Safety Leadership Table, which released its final report in March.
A group of downtown leaders was brought together by Mayor Jyoti Gondek last fall to help identity ways to enhance the downtown experience for all.
The final report made 28 recommendations it said would improve downtown safety and the visitor experience, and increase support for at-risk individuals.
Some of those recommendations included the creation of an Indigenous gathering place, rough sleeping response, affordable, supportive market housing, support for grassroots and community-led groups, and more.
Gondek says a future guided by these recommendations will allow all Calgarians to take pride in a downtown that is safe and inclusive for all.
She added that the work of the Downtown Safety Leadership Table is an example how powerful diverse perspectives coming together can be.
Kay Choi, the city’s community safety and wellbeing lead says that work is already underway or is set to begin on all 28 recommendations.
Eleven recommendations are expected to be continued within the year, and eight will need more resources or funding to be implemented.
The city is already reviewing possible funding streams.
According to the city, steps have already been taken on items such as increased uniformed officer presence and co-ordination, safety, improved maintenance and cleanliness in public spaces, and other resources for vulnerable Calgarians.
“We are committed to a Calgary where everyone feels safe, connected, supported and that they belong,” Choi said.
Updates are expected later this year on the progress of the implementation plan, and individual project updates will happen as recommendations are implemented.