Strong Roots, Stronger Future: City launches Capital Improvement Program engagement

The City of Lethbridge is launching a two-phase public engagement process that will provide residents with opportunities to learn about its Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The Strong Roots, Stronger Future campaign will invite the community to participate in conversations about the investments needed to maintain essential infrastructure and support future growth.  

The campaign will inform residents about the upcoming CIP, which includes funding for the next four-year Capital Budget (2027-2030) within a ten-year Capital Plan (2027-2036). The CIP helps fund major projects and infrastructure investments that support Lethbridge’s growth and quality of life. These investments include parks, recreation and community facilities, transportation improvements, utility infrastructure and other major community assets.  

As City Council prepares to set priorities for the next decade, much of the immediate funding will need to be directed toward maintaining and replacing existing infrastructure, meeting safety requirements, addressing legislative obligations and preserving the services residents rely on every day.  

While these investments are often less visible than new projects, they strengthen the roots that keeps the community strong and resilient.  

“Every budget decision we make is about balancing today’s needs with tomorrow’s opportunities,” says Mayor Blaine Hyggen. “The investments we make in infrastructure, facilities and services impact residents for years to come. We encourage everyone to learn more about the CIP and take part in the conversation as we work together to build a stronger future for Lethbridge.” 

With limited funding available during the first four years of the plan, Council faces important decisions about how best to invest in the community while maintaining essential infrastructure and services.  

“The CIP is about making responsible, long-term investments that provide value to our community,” says Darrell Mathews, Chief Financial Officer and City Treasurer. “A significant portion of our available funding must be dedicated to renewing and maintaining the infrastructure residents use every day. By understanding those needs today, we can ensure we’re creating a solid foundation for future growth.” 

The CIP engagement will take place in two phases. Phase one launches today and focuses on building awareness of the current CIP needs and budget decisions later this fall. Residents are invited to learn more about the investments that maintain and strengthen infrastructure, facilities and services that support everyday life in Lethbridge.  

City staff will be available at the following community events to answer questions and provide information: 

• August 19 - Downtown Farmers' Market (Festival Square) 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. 
• August 27 - Upside Downtown concert event (Casa) 5 - 8 p.m. 
• September 28 - City Showcase (City Hall foyer) 3 - 6 p.m. 
• October 3 - Saturday Farmers' Market (Excite Lethbridge) 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. 

Residents are invited to attend the October 6-8 Community Issues Committee (CIC) meetings where proposed CIP projects will be presented. CIC meetings are open to the public and residents can provide feedback as projects are discussed. Council will deliberate on the next CIP budget November 16-20.  

Beginning in early 2027, the second phase of engagement will invite residents to share their values, aspirations and ideas for the future as the City explores which CIP projects Lethbridge will need in the next decade and beyond. 

To learn more about the CIP and follow the Strong Roots, Stronger Future engagement process, visit getinvolvedlethbridge.ca/cip and subscribe to the City’s budget newsletter for ongoing updates.  

For Public Inquiries: 
Call or chat with 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.