Today InCalgary
Thursday, September 3, 2026

Ottawa puts $29 million into north Calgary's water problem

Plus ranked crossings, cancer care closer to home, and a free arts month.

September resets many routines around here. This week's changes may show up in your commute, your tap, and your Saturday.

The big story

Ottawa has pledged $29 million to the North Calgary Water Servicing project. The new water main is meant to serve communities on the city's north side.

City officials say the finished system will deliver 100 million litres of drinking water. The target date is 2029.

This is a long-term project, not a quick change at the tap. This week's news is the federal pledge and the amount of water the new system could supply.

Northside residents now have two clear points to track: the 2029 target and the planned 100-million-litre supply. Future updates should show if work remains on time.

Around town

A new express bus links Sage Hill with downtown

Calgary Transit launched its new 500-series express routes on August 31. The first is Route 503, the Symons Valley Express.

The direct route makes limited stops. It links Sage Hill and nearby communities with downtown. The city says the 500-series aims to offer a faster trip and fit with the wider transit network.

For northwest riders, the change is simple. There is now an express option for a downtown trip. Check Route 503's times and stops before your next commute.

Inside City Hall

Council now has Calgary's riskiest crossings ranked

Calgary now has a ranked list of its 50 highest-risk pedestrian crossings without traffic signals. An AI review used city transport data to rank them.

Council members discussed the list at a committee meeting on September 1. They also looked at whether the budget could fund fixes.

The ranking does not mean work is approved at all 50 sites. It gives council an order to use when it weighs funding. The next key update will be which sites get money and what fixes council picks.

Calgary will make more of its own cancer isotopes

Alberta will make more radioisotopes in Calgary at a new radiopharmaceutical facility. The project will support cancer care closer to patients.

Making more of the material in Calgary should cut transport barriers. It means more of this step in the care chain can happen close to home.

The news is about added capacity. It does not include a new booking system or an opening date. Patients should keep using their current care contacts. Watch for the start of production and any change in access across Alberta.

A campaign forms against separation ahead of the referendum

Public Interest Alberta has launched a campaign against separation. Its slogan is "no to the nine."

The group is asking Albertans to take part in the coming vote. It calls the debate divisive and distracting. It wants voters to send a clear message and move on to other issues.

This is an advocacy campaign, not a neutral voting guide. Readers should expect other groups to make their own case. Use official election sources for the question, voter rules, and ballot process.

Make plans

Culture Days fills the month with free things to do

Calgary Culture Days is back for its 12th year. The local program runs all through September. It brings artists, groups, and communities together.

The month includes festivals, films, art shows, and dance. Many events are free, so it can be a low-cost weekend option.

Events take place on many dates and at many sites. Check the program before you leave. Confirm the time, place, and cost for the event you choose.

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