Calgary Mayor Gondek seeks urgent meeting with Marda Loop businesses as prolonged construction triggers more closures in the busy southwest district.
Mayor Responds to Ongoing Business Closures
Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek is calling for direct dialogue with business owners in the Marda Loop area after another local shop shut its doors, citing prolonged construction disruptions. The closure of pet-supply retailer Doodle Dogs on August 6 has amplified concerns from entrepreneurs who say their operations are being crippled by ongoing infrastructure work.
Construction Delays Blamed for Financial Losses
The Marda Loop Main Street redevelopment began in early 2023, with original plans projecting completion by summer of that year. However, the schedule has since been pushed to October 2025. The delays have impacted foot traffic, access, and parking — conditions that small business owners argue are unsustainable.
Businesses Voice Concerns Amid Closures
In recent years, several shops — including Monkeyshines Children’s Books and Apt 22 Boutique — have permanently closed, citing construction-related issues. Doodle Dogs, which opened its Marda Loop location in December 2023, announced its closure this week, saying on social media that “construction absolutely killed our store.”
Legal Action Highlights Business Frustration
In July, a coalition of Marda Loop businesses filed a $75 million lawsuit against the City of Calgary. The suit claims “undue delay,” “constant disruptions,” and “extreme drops” in customer traffic due to restricted road access and long-standing construction barriers.
Mayor Gondek Seeks Constructive Dialogue
Speaking on August 6, Gondek said she aims to meet with affected business owners and city officials to explore short-term fixes and long-term commitments. She cited the potential for solutions like plank walkways, temporary parking spaces, and better project communication as ways to ease the current strain.
Rain, Roadwork, and Revenue Losses
While city officials attribute some delays to an unusually rainy summer, business owners insist better coordination and transparency are necessary. Calgary’s Chief Administrative Officer and Infrastructure Services General Manager visited the site this week to assess remaining challenges and gather feedback.
Looking Ahead
Mayor Gondek emphasized that completing the Marda Loop Main Street project remains the city’s top priority. However, she acknowledged the urgency of supporting local businesses in the meantime. “The actual completion is the biggest concrete step that we have to get to,” Gondek said. “In the meantime, we need to listen to businesses and understand what they’re struggling with.”
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