A beloved cafe in Calgary, Angel’s Cafe, must relocate due to the city’s urgent Bearspaw feeder main replacement project. Established for 28 years in Edworthy Park, the cafe has been a local favorite along the north bank of the Bow River.
Relocation Notice and Community Impact
On Friday, city officials informed cafe owner Cathy Jacobs that she must move within 30 days. This decision follows the pipe’s second rupture in less than two years, prompting an expedited construction timeline. Jacobs expressed her shock, especially after recently signing a five-year lease.
- Cathy Jacobs: Owner of Angel’s Cafe
- Notification Date: February 22 deadline to vacate
- Community Impact: Potential permanent closure of the cafe
Jacobs shared her concerns about the impact on her employees, including a single father who relies on his job at the cafe. “I didn’t sleep all night,” she shared, highlighting the distress caused by the abrupt notice.
Details of the Bearspaw Feeder Main Replacement
The city aims to complete the feeder main replacement by December. Originally projected to start in spring with a 2028 completion date, the shift to an expedited timeline reflects growing safety concerns.
- New Steel Pipe: To be installed parallel to the existing line
- Construction Limits: Access to Edworthy Park’s north parking lot will be restricted
- Microtunnelling: Utilized in the project to navigate major roadways and the Bow River
City officials are working closely with nearby businesses and residents to minimize disruptions. “We remain committed to informing impacted parties,” said a city spokesperson.
Community Support & Future Plans
Ward 7 Councillor Myke Atkinson voiced his disappointment over the cafe’s displacement but emphasized the necessity of the pipe replacement for public safety. The existing feeder main poses risks, especially with limited water supply from the Glenmore Reservoir.
The city is in active discussions with those affected to address their concerns. Jacobs hopes to engage with city councillors to voice her situation and discuss potential solutions.
The deadline for the cafe’s relocation is closing in, and Jacobs is now faced with the task of finding a new home for her establishment. The community will keenly feel the loss of a local hub as the Bearspaw feeder main replacement project progresses.
