Calgary Mayoral Candidates Unveil Solutions to Main Street Construction Challenges
Calgary Mayoral Candidates Tackle Main Street Construction Challenges
Impact of Prolonged Construction on Local Calgary Businesses
As Calgary’s mayoral race intensifies, candidates are focusing on the disruptive effects of extended main street construction projects on the local business community. Some businesses, however, may have already suffered irreversible damage. In Marda Loop, Nho Saigon, a Vietnamese restaurant servicing the community for over 17 years, has been forced to relocate to 17th Avenue. The owner, Tring Dang, expressed that the move was out of necessity due to challenging access caused by ongoing construction.
Business Owners Struggle Amid Construction Challenges
Dang described the complexities posed by numerous detours and closures over nearly two years. “The side, in front, no turn. One-way, right, and then no turn,” he explained, highlighting difficulties that not only hampered customer access but also delivery operations. Dang reported frequent instances of customers cancelling orders after failing to navigate the construction area.
Mayoral Candidate Proposals to Address Infrastructure Issues
Incumbent mayoral candidate Jyoti Gondek promises to reform the city’s approach to handling major infrastructure projects. Her plan includes appointing a dedicated point person for each project and coordinating utility work to prevent repeated road disruptions. “We need to ensure sidewalks remain open and enough parking is available for your customers,” Gondek stated. Fellow candidate Jeromy Farkas is also considering compensating businesses affected by construction delays.
- Proposed appointment of project managers for better coordination
- Plans for point persons to oversee infrastructure initiatives
- Compensation discussions for businesses impacted by delays
Criticism and Alternative Approaches to Mitigate Construction Delays
Critics of the proposals, including candidate Jeff Davison, argue that such measures come too late for businesses like Nho Saigon. Brian Thiessen of the Calgary Party is prioritizing main street projects in his campaign, advocating for increased funding to expedite project completion and alleviate the pressure on local merchants.
Chamber of Commerce Advocates for Business-Friendly Policies
The Calgary Chamber of Commerce recently introduced its 2025 Municipal Election Platform, emphasizing the need to address construction delays and traffic disruptions, which are significant concerns for local businesses. With nine candidates in the race and nearly half of voters undecided, infrastructure and housing will likely be deciding factors. Advance voting is scheduled from October 6 to 11, with the election night on October 20.
