Back to the Office: How Calgary Companies Shaped Hybrid Work Changes

Calgary's downtown is bracing for a significant shift as Government of Alberta (GOA) employees prepare to return to the office full-time. This move, effective February 2026, signals the end of the interim hybrid work policy established in March 2022, which allowed approximately 12,600 government employees, or 44 percent of the workforce as of August 2025, to work remotely up to two days a week.

The decision follows advocacy from downtown business associations, who anticipate a much-needed boost in foot traffic and economic activity for Calgary's core. Our downtown, like many across North America, has been working diligently on revitalization efforts, including office-to-residential conversions and public space improvements, but still grapples with higher office vacancy rates compared to pre-pandemic levels.

For Calgarians, this influx means more bustling streets, but also potential challenges. Commute times, already a growing concern with the city's rapid population increase, are expected to lengthen. Parking in downtown Calgary, known for its high demand and cost, will likely become even more competitive. Calgary Transit, which has seen ridership struggle to fully rebound post-pandemic, may experience increased demand, further straining its operating budget which faces shortfalls.

While City of Calgary municipal employees are not subject to this change, retaining their flexible work-from-home policy, other local workers are watching closely. The push aims to inject vibrancy back into the heart of the city, aligning with Calgary's ongoing focus on maintaining a lively downtown essential to its economy and cultural scene.