Calgary asks Ottawa for more than $800M in federal budget submission

Calgary city council is reviewing a list of $800 million in grant asks ahead of the federal budget. Mason DePatie reports.

Calgary is seeking more than $800M from Ottawa to fund major infrastructure, transit and recreation projects in its 2026 pre-budget request.

The city’s intergovernmental affairs committee will review the draft submission on Thursday and will likely forward it to council for approval.

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The submission outlines five priorities city officials say align with federal objectives around economic growth, infrastructure investment and community development.

At the top of the list is a request for $190 million for critical infrastructure projects, including the Bearspaw South Feeder Main replacement, which aims to ensure reliable water delivery and keep up with growth demand.

Calgary is also seeking $335 million for RouteAhead, Calgary Transit’s long-term expansion plan.

A large chunk of the request covers a new bus maintenance and storage facility, as well as funding for the Blue Line LRT extension to 88th Avenue.

Another major funding ask is $320 million for the first wave of projects under GamePLAN, Calgary’s long-term recreation strategy.

The city says the money would help fund the proposed Foothills Multisport Fieldhouse and upgrades to recreation facilities across the city.

Calgary is also requesting full federal funding for its application to the Trade Diversification Corridors Fund for the Prairie Economic Gateway project.

The proposed inland port is expected to create over 30,000 jobs and generate about $7 billion in economic activity during construction and development.

The city is also asking Ottawa to engage more directly with municipalities on public safety issues, including bail reform and repeat offenders.

In its submission, the city says Calgary is one of the fastest-growing cities and a major economic driver in Canada. It argues that federal investment in local infrastructure will help boost economic growth, trade, and population across the country.

If approved by council, Mayor Jeromy Farkas will be asked to sign and submit the recommendations to the federal government on Calgary’s behalf.