Calgary Weekly Digest: Jan 19–25, 2026

Bus driver viciously assaulted — guilty plea

• One of two men charged in the May 14, 2025 assault on a Calgary Transit bus driver pleaded guilty to 2 of 6 charges. Officers were called shortly before 1 a.m. at Falconridge & Castleridge. The driver was hospitalized in life‑threatening condition and remains unable to return to work. Union president Mike Mahar highlighted risks facing lone drivers.

City infrastructure at “extensive risk” — 11% in poor condition

• A new city report rates Calgary’s capital infrastructure risk as "extensive," up from "high." About 11% of assets are in poor condition. The Bearspaw feeder main — carrying 60% of Calgary’s drinking water — suffered a second critical failure in under two years. Audit committee to review urgent actions.

Mayors frustrated by CMHC Housing Accelerator Fund cuts

• Federal cuts reduced Toronto’s HAF allocation from $471M to $461M after Toronto declined citywide sixplex zoning; Vaughan and Red Deer also saw funding changes. Housing Minister Gregor Robertson cited multi‑unit permitting requirements. Mayors expressed disappointment but reiterated commitment to build homes.

Extreme fire risk near Lethbridge River Valley encampments

• Lethbridge crews fought two grass fires that threatened homes in English Oaks Estates near Scenic Drive & 10 Ave S. Evacuations were precautionary. Investigators believe at least one fire started at a river‑valley encampment; officials urge public to report fires immediately.

Yearlong harassment campaign leads to charges — Okotoks family

• RCMP arrested a suspect accused of months of online death threats, taunting and slashed tires beginning Feb 2025. Victims reported tires slashed on four occasions and threats to three family members. Court orders were used to identify anonymous accounts.

AGLC accepting requests for expanded Olympic liquor hours

• Alberta Gaming and Liquor Corp. invites licensed venues to apply for extended service during Milano‑Cortina medal rounds (Feb 6–22, 2026). Requests require at least 3 working days’ notice and must meet set criteria; Alberta is 8 hours behind Italy.