Capitol Hill Community Drainage Improvements
Capitol Hill Community Drainage Improvements
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
-
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
Latest updates
While portions of this project will be completed this fall, others will be postponed until spring 2027. We are committed to taking the time needed ensure the best long-term outcome for Capitol Hill. Work for this season will be completed by the end of October.
All roads will be reopened prior to winter and disruptions will be minimal until construction resumes in the spring.
Construction
Construction will wrap up for 2026 by the end of October. Work will resume in April 2027.
| Estimated timeframe | Construction area | Construction details |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated timeframe : August – October 2026 |
Construction
area
:
Capitol Hill
Elementary School dry pond |
Construction details : Utility work complete. Fencing will remain in place over winter so landscaping can be completed in spring 2027. |
| Estimated timeframe : June - October 2026, July 2027 |
Construction
area
:
Stormwater pipe,
service line and water main work |
Construction details : Crews will remove the road surface, install or replace underground pipes, fill the excavation and repair the road when the work is done. |
| Estimated timeframe : April – May 2027 | Construction area : Pathway work | Construction details : New sidewalk on 23 Ave N.W. and a new pathway between 23 and 24 Ave N.W. |
| Estimated timeframe : April – May 2027 | Construction area : Landscaping | Construction details : Landscaping postponed until spring to allow vegetation to thrive. |
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
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?
All roads where new pipe installation is occurring will be closed throughout 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.