Sunnyside Flood Barrier now operational after $73-million build

Calgary's Sunnyside Flood Barrier is now operational, the City of Calgary said on Sept. 26, completing a 2.4-kilometre line of permanent flood walls, sheet pile walls, demountable flood walls and deployable flood protection systems along the Bow River.

The barrier protects the communities of Sunnyside and Hillhurst from a one-in-100-year flood event, meaning a flood with a one per cent chance of occurring in any given year. The city says the project represents a total investment of $73 million over a decade, from initial planning through to completion.

Mayor Jeromy Farkas called the completion a major achievement for Calgary.

This project strengthens our ability to withstand future flood events while creating lasting community spaces that Sunnyside residents and visitors can enjoy for generations to come.Mayor Jeromy Farkas

Michael Thompson, the city's chief operating officer for the water utility, said building a barrier Calgarians can rely on means preparing in advance for extreme events and reducing their impacts when they occur.

The Sunnyside Flood Barrier is an important example of how long-term planning and investment help protect people, homes and businesses from river flooding.Michael Thompson, chief operating officer, water utility

Community input shaped the project and the public spaces around it, according to the city. Residents of Sunnyside and Hillhurst and city council emphasized preserving connections to the Bow River, enhancing public spaces and honouring the community's history.

The finished work includes nine new seating areas, two food truck pads, improved pathways and public spaces for people walking, wheeling and cycling, along with approximately 200 new trees, including 68 Memorial poplar clone trees. Four public spaces were enhanced: the Calgary Soldiers' Memorial, Peace Bridge North Shore, 7 Street N.W. lookout and Prince's Island Pedestrian Bridge and Bow River access.

Martin Pritchard, manager of linear infrastructure delivery, said the barrier delivers critical flood protection while enhancing public spaces and celebrating the community's history and character.

Since the 2013 flood, more than $1.3 billion has been invested in flood mitigation and resilience projects throughout Calgary, according to the city. Completed or underway mitigation work has reduced Calgary's flood risk by approximately 70 per cent and flood damages by $118 million every year.