Capitol Hill Community Drainage Improvements
Capitol Hill Community Drainage Improvements
Reducing flood risk and improving safety and resiliency in the community
Project overview
This project will upgrade older stormwater infrastructure in Capitol Hill. Installing larger pipes and a new dry pond will reduce flooding by giving rainwater more places to go during storms.
The work supports long-term community resilience as Calgary sees more intense storms.
This project will:
- Build a dry pond at Capitol Hill School.
- Replace older stormwater pipes with larger pipes.
- Add new stormwater pipes in key areas.
- Replace an older water main.
- Add new sidewalks near Capitol Hill School and St. Pius X School.
Community benefits
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Reduced flood risk
Larger pipes, catch basins and a dry pond will help collect and move stormwater after heavy rain.
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Safer travel near schools
New sidewalks near school sites will improving safety and accessibility.
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Restored green space
The dry pond area will be landscaped, supporting recreation when dry.
Project location
Ward: 7
Nearby communities: Capitol Hill
Work will take place near Capitol Hill School, St. Pius X School and several nearby streets, including parts of 21 Avenue N.W., 22 Avenue N.W., 23 Avenue N.W., 17 Street N.W. and 16 Street N.W.
Project phase
Construction
Construction is underway, with work on the dry pond being the top priority. Construction will affect roads, sidewalks, parking and access in parts of Capitol Hill.
| Estimated timeframe | Construction area | Construction details |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated timeframe : July - August 2026 | Construction area : Capitol Hill Elementary School dry pond |
Construction
details
:
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| Estimated timeframe : June - October 2026 | Construction area : Stormwater pipe, service line and water main work |
Construction
details
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For street-specific construction timing, visit North Star Contracting’s weekly project updates.
Crews will generally work:
- Monday to Saturday: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Sunday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
During construction, residents may see:
- Road & sidewalk closures.
- Temporary loss of street parking in some areas.
- Changes to waste collection in some areas.
- Temporary water shutoffs. Crews will notify affected residents before shutoffs happen.
- Noise, dust and construction traffic.
- Temporary fencing around work areas.
- Tree removal where new sidewalks are being added along 22 and 23 Avenue N.W. Trees will be replaced after construction.
Minimizing construction impacts
Construction is part of building a better city, but we know reliable access and safe travel matter to our community. We are working hard to reduce impacts to people and businesses wherever possible.
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Coordinating with school start
Dry pond work is scheduled to finish early September to minimize disruption near Capitol Hill School.
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Clear detour signs
We'll use clear signs and detours to help you travel safely around construction.
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Keeping the community clean
Regular road cleaning will help reduce dust and keep streets safe and tidy during construction.
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Restoring roads quickly
We’ll fill and restore excavated areas as soon as possible to help maintain access and safety.
Budget and funding
$5.8 million
This project is part of The City's Community Drainage Improvements Program, which works to reduce overland flooding in areas throughout Calgary.
Frequently asked questions
What is a dry pond?
A dry pond helps reduce flooding during heavy rain.
Most of the time, a dry pond looks like a landscaped open space. People can use the space for recreation when it is dry.
During a heavy rainstorm, the dry pond temporarily holds stormwater. This gives the drainage system more time to move water through the pipes. After the storm, the water drains through outlets at the bottom of the pond. This can take about one to six hours.
Will construction affect roads and sidewalks?
Yes. Some roads and sidewalks will close temporarily during construction. Crews will place signs and detours where needed.
Will parking be affected?
Yes. Street parking will be temporarily unavailable in some work areas.
Will my water service be affected?
Temporary water shutoffs may happen. Crews will notify affected residents before any planned shutoff.
Are trees being removed during this project?
Yes, some mature trees will be removed along 21 and 23 Ave N.E. to allow for sidewalk construction. Any trees removed will be replanted following construction, as weather allows.
Contact
Email: capitolhilldrainage@calgary.ca
Contact: 311
Related information
Nearby projects
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Helping prevent flooding along Bow Bottom Trail and nearby homes by adding stormwater storage, reducing the risk of road closures, property damage and basement flooding during heavy rain.
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Restoring a historic wetland, creating wildlife habitat, improving natural water filtration and giving residents better access to nature through new trails.
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Redeveloping Foothills Athletic Park with a new year-round multisport facility, giving Calgarians more space to play, practice and compete while supporting major sporting events.