McHugh Bluff slope remediation project
Project update – June 2025
The contractor has finished work on the upper slope. They are now building a retaining wall made of gabion baskets next to the pathway. This wall will help support the slope and keep the area safe.
Construction is expected to be completed by summer 2025.
Project overview
In August 2021 following heavy rainfall, a section of the McHugh Bluff slope behind 3 Avenue N.W. become unstable. The City of Calgary initiated monitoring and engaged a consultant to conduct a geotechnical assessment. Based on their findings, a remediation plan was developed to address the slope stability.
Key components of the remediation include:
- Installation of soil nails with shotcrete
- Placement of sheet drains
- Installation of horizontal slope drains
- Application of high-strength wire mesh, steel plates, and geosynthetics
- Reconstruction of the existing gabion basket retaining wall adjacent to the pathway
Short-term measures
In spring 2022, short-term measures were implemented, including the placement of coir matting to secure erosion gullies and delay further surface erosion.
Pathway status
The pathway will remain closed until the completion of all remediation efforts. Please refer to the map below for detailed information about closures and detours.

Frequently Asked Questions
Timelines
- Contract award: September 2024
- Construction: October 2024 – July 2025
- Construction break: December 21, 2024 – Jan 05, 2025
- Construction completion: Summer 2025