Ward 5 is one of Calgary’s most rapidly expanding and culturally diverse areas, home to thousands of families, newcomers, and long-time residents. As new neighbourhoods emerge and established communities evolve, City Council faces the challenge of balancing growth with sustainability, accessibility, and inclusiveness.
Councillor Raj Dhaliwal, who represents Ward 5, has worked alongside residents, civic departments, and community associations to guide projects that meet those goals while reflecting the unique character of Calgary’s northeast.
Councillor Dhaliwal’s role is rooted in collaboration. He often emphasizes that progress in Ward 5 depends on partnership—between citizens, City Hall, and local organizations. His office regularly engages with residents to identify neighbourhood priorities such as safer roads, improved recreation facilities, and better public transportation.
This hands-on approach has helped shape multiple city projects now under way or recently completed in Ward 5.
One of the consistent themes in northeast Calgary has been the need for stronger transportation links. Rapid population growth has placed pressure on arterial roads and transit routes. Working with city planners, Councillor Dhaliwal has supported projects designed to improve daily mobility and long-term infrastructure resilience.
Recent upgrades to Airport Trail and nearby intersections have enhanced traffic flow between residential zones, industrial areas, and the Calgary International Airport corridor. Road-widening, new signal lights, and pedestrian crossings are helping reduce congestion and travel time for commuters.
The Green Line LRT—Calgary’s largest public-transit expansion—also plays a key role in future connectivity for Ward 5. Community consultations have focused on ensuring the line’s design serves northeast residents effectively, improving access to employment, education, and recreation across the city.
Smaller but vital improvements, such as upgraded bus shelters, intersection lighting, and pathway extensions, reflect the city’s commitment to inclusive mobility for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.
Safety and livability are central to any thriving community. Through coordination with the Calgary Police Service, community associations, and resident-led safety groups, Councillor Dhaliwal has encouraged proactive measures to reduce speeding, strengthen crime-prevention education, and enhance lighting in residential areas.
Projects like traffic-calming installations and safer crosswalk programs have been implemented in several neighbourhoods. These improvements are especially valued by families and schools, promoting pedestrian safety for children and seniors.
Public-space upgrades complement those efforts. Park revitalizations, playground replacements, and recreation-area refurbishments across communities such as Saddle Ridge, Skyview Ranch, and Martindale provide accessible places for outdoor activity. Each project was developed with resident feedback and City of Calgary Parks’ design expertise to create inclusive gathering spaces that strengthen neighbourhood identity.
Ward 5 has one of Calgary’s youngest populations, and much of the area’s planning emphasizes youth engagement and family wellbeing. Councillor Dhaliwal has highlighted the importance of community programming that gives young people opportunities to develop leadership skills and stay active.
Investments in local recreation centres, after-school programs, and library expansions help meet those needs. In several schools and community hubs, youth-oriented art projects and mentorship initiatives have encouraged participation in civic life, reflecting the ward’s diversity and energy.
For families, expanded playgrounds, walking trails, and child-friendly amenities make neighbourhoods more welcoming and connected—an essential part of long-term community health.