On a July day in 2006, shortly past midnight, Dashiell Waite was born at Rockyview Hospital, weighing nine pounds, eight ounces. Although his weight placed him in the 96th percentile for boys, it was not his size that garnered attention. Dashiell was celebrated as the one-millionth resident of Calgary, marking a significant milestone for the city after 122 years of incorporation.
Calgary’s population growth is accelerating rapidly, with projections suggesting it could reach two million residents by the mid-2020s, before Dashiell turns 30. The city’s surge in population has led to various challenges and demands, from affordable housing and transit to infrastructure development and public safety.
The upcoming municipal election in Calgary is heavily influenced by the city’s rapid growth, with candidates making promises to address the pressing issues arising from the population boom. Campaign platforms include pledges to enhance transit systems, invest in sustainable planning, and accommodate the needs of a growing city while maintaining quality of life.
While some foresee Calgary reaching three million residents in the next decade, recent data indicates a slower pace of growth due to declining immigration rates in Alberta. Nevertheless, the city continues to expand, with projections estimating a population of 1.75 million by the end of the 2020s and the greater metropolitan region surpassing two million by 2029.
City officials and planners are adjusting strategies to accommodate the unexpected growth, emphasizing densification within existing communities and new suburbs. Efforts are underway to improve infrastructure, expand transit networks, and address housing affordability to meet the demands of Calgary’s burgeoning population.
As Calgary grapples with the challenges of its expanding population, the focus remains on proactive planning and resource allocation to ensure the city’s sustainability and livability for all residents. The upcoming council faces the task of managing the city’s growth effectively and responsibly to meet the needs of its evolving demographic landscape.