The City of Calgary recently announced the commencement of the Sunnyside Flood Barrier project, a pivotal infrastructure initiative aimed at protecting Sunnyside and Hillhurst from river flooding. The groundbreaking event marks a significant step toward enhancing flood resilience and safeguarding these communities.

This essential flood barrier will provide crucial protection against potential flood damage, similar to the catastrophic events of 2013. The barrier’s construction will improve climate resilience, protecting lives, homes, and businesses in Sunnyside and Hillhurst.

Mayor Jyoti Gondek highlights the project’s dual benefits: “The Sunnyside Flood Barrier addresses urgent infrastructure needs while enhancing public spaces. This barrier will provide vital flood protection and contribute to our city’s long-term resilience and beauty.”

The Sunnyside Flood Barrier will run along Calgary’s cherished corridors, integrating flood protection with public space enhancements. The design builds upon recent area improvements, ensuring continuity and safety. Key features include:

• Flood Protection: A combination of permanent flood walls, sheet walls, and temporary deployable systems such as sandbags and water-filled tubes.
• Pathway Enhancements: A multi-use pathway with defined lanes for cyclists and pedestrians, widened where possible, and formalized river access via staircases and accessible routes to prevent erosion.
• Public Spaces: Enhanced plaza areas, additional seating, and five specific improvement zones, including Calgary Soldiers’ Memorial, Poppy Plaza, Peace Bridge North Shore, 7 Street N.W. lookout, and Prince’s Island Pedestrian Bridge and Bow River Access.

Councillor Terry Wong expressed his excitement: “The Sunnyside Flood Barrier project enhances the Bow River Pathway for all Calgarians and ensures the protection of Sunnyside. This milestone reflects the dedication of community volunteers and city staff who have worked tirelessly to make this project a reality.”

The project, estimated at $50 million, will begin with enabling work before official barrier construction starts. Updates on the schedule, work details, and potential construction impacts will be provided to ensure safe and efficient movement within Sunnyside, Hillhurst, Kensington, and Riley Park.

Expected to be completed by spring 2026, ahead of the flood season, the Sunnyside Flood Barrier represents a significant investment in Calgary’s flood resilience and community safety.

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