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New initiative invites Calgarians to rediscover Stephen Avenue and support local businesses

By Johanna Luna Aug 5, 2026 | 1:53 PM

A new initiative has been launched today by the City of Calgary, Calgary Police, and downtown partners + businesses starting a community series called “See you on Stephen Avenue”. 

This initiative is designed to attract new visitors, support local businesses and encourage Calgarians to spend time on Calgary’s most iconic downtown streets. 

“Stephen Avenue is a cornerstone of downtown Calgary and is a key part of the city’s identity. For generations, it has been one of Calgary’s most important gathering places, where people come to shop, dine, connect and celebrate,” says Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “We’re inviting people to come downtown, explore what’s new and support the businesses that make this street unique.

Every visit and every purchase made on Stephen Avenue helps strengthen our local economy and support the Calgarians behind it.”

 

As part of this initiative, Explore Downtown YYC is offering complimentary evening and weekend parking at Harmony Parkade through June 2027, making it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy everything Stephen Avenue has to offer.

 

Additional initiatives include:

 

 1. Enhanced lighting, cleaning and maintenance

 2. Increased collaboration among safety and community partners

 3. A gift card contest supported by the Calgary Downtown Association

 4. Featured patio menus and promotions

 5. Ongoing partnerships focused on attracting visitors and supporting local businesses

 

As part of the initiative, the Stephen Avenue Safety Hub provides a space for the Calgary Police Service, Community Standards, Transit Public Safety and community partners to collaborate, write reports and share information in a central location on Stephen Avenue. 

CJWE talks with the Mayor of Calgary Jeremy Farkas: 

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