Inglewood is the oldest community in Calgary with Ninth Avenue as its longest heritage main street. It is a destination enjoyed by Calgarians and visitors year-round for its village feel, quirky shops and great music venues and was named Best Community in Canada in 2014 by the Canadian Institute of Planners. 

But now, it is under an assault that could destroy it forever. 

Three separate land use change applications have been proposed, each for at least twice the existing bylaw limit of 65 feet or about six storeys.  If built, any of these three properties would forever change the face of the community, leaving behind another bland, commercial wind tunnel – instead of a people-centric avenue, where things are built to a scale that is enjoyable and inviting for pedestrians.

What does this mean in economic terms? Calgary has been waist-deep in a recession for six years.

Businesses are challenged here in Inglewood like anywhere else, but hang on because this shopping area is so unique. Ninth Avenue has also famously been featured as a historical backdrop for many films and television series like Fargo, supporting an industry that has brought hundreds of millions into the City economy for years.

Heritage tourism brings a lot of interest and brings money to the city year-round.

Calgarians under stress from job loss and tax increases can still come to village-like streets and unique owner-run shops, and escape to a friendly, fun, green place that is still about people.

If one of these huge glass towers is built, there will be more to come.  There will be a domino effect and the neighbourhood as it exists now will be gone forever. And in these times, that will be catastrophic.

The local councillor has said publicly that the people are not the “deciders” in building heights for Inglewood. On the contrary, we strongly believe the history of Calgary belongs to the people.

Please help us prove that history, community character, and our main streets belong to all of us. Help us show that we care and we will stand up for and respect our heritage. 

Click on this petition to tell City councillors and Administration that we are not for sale!