Your neighbourhood listening tour report
downtown commercial core
We’ve been knocking on doors and collecting survey feedback for over six months in the Downtown Commercial Core and across Ward 7, and we learned a lot about residents’ priorities.
What we heard
Residents consistently highlight the benefit of living at the centre of Calgary’s cultural and civic life. The convenience of being close to everything is a defining strength.
“Everything is close by and that makes living here great.”
— Downtown Commercial Core Resident
There is a recurring call for more basics. Residents pointed to a lack of essential amenities like grocery stores and everyday services that would make downtown living easier.
“We still don’t have enough basic services like grocery stores or places to go in the centre of downtown.”
— Downtown Commercial Core Resident
Safety is another top concern. Some public spaces feel unwelcoming, especially at night, and residents want more attention to safety and cleanliness.
“Downtown should feel safe no matter the time of day.”
— Downtown Commercial Core Resident
Sidewalk conditions and street-level experiences came up often. People want cleaner, better-maintained sidewalks, more greenery, and places to sit and connect.
“Our sidewalks should be cleaner and better maintained for how many people are using them.”
— Downtown Commercial Core Resident
Residents are also calling for more community-friendly spaces. Parks, recreation amenities, and cultural programming are all seen as critical to making downtown more livable.
“Cultural events bring energy to the streets.”
— Downtown Commercial Core Resident
There is strong support for more housing — especially affordable options — and for reducing barriers to patios, activations, and events that bring vibrancy to Calgary’s core. Concerns about late-night noise and vehicle traffic balance these calls, but the overall message is clear: people want a safer, more welcoming, and more complete downtown.
a few favourite spots in the neighbourhood
Emerging Residential Community
More people are choosing to live downtown, and there is an appreciation for the growing sense of community among residents.
Stephen Avenue
This iconic pedestrian street is a highlight of downtown life, blending historic character with restaurants, shops, patios, and cultural activations.
Murals from the BUMP Festival
Public art, especially the large-scale murals created through the BUMP Festival, adds colour, identity, and creativity to downtown streets.
Every neighbourhood in Ward 7 has its own character, but together they share common hopes and challenges. From safe streets and thriving local businesses to parks, pathways, and gathering places, the themes are clear.