Calgary store blames Marda Loop construction for its closure
A business in Marda Loop is shutting its doors, and the owners are blaming ongoing construction in the area as the main reason for closing up shop.
The people behind Doodle Dogs, a local pet boutique, recently took to Instagram to announce the permanent closure of its Marda Loop location, following months of construction that they say has impacted customer access and foot traffic.
“We always wanted to open in Marda Loop, it was a dream of ours for years. We built the store up from the studs, and we were so excited to show you what we built for you.
For 15 months, we kept saying ‘Just one more month’… ‘It’ll get better’… After sinking $1,000s monthly and never able to get ahead, we can’t afford to do one more month,” the business shared in its Instagram post.
“The construction absolutely killed our store. The parking, the accessibility, the back parking lot for drivers. You win, City,” the business added.
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Construction in Marda Loop began in June 2023 and was supposed to wrap up by Summer 2024; however, the City of Calgary has since expanded the completion date to October 2025.
According to the City, the project goals are to prioritize pedestrian safety, enhance landscaping, develop unique streetscape elements, provide new opportunities for community gatherings, and provide safe movement for all modes of travel within Marda Loop.
In an effort to support the local businesses, the City has provided temporary parking lots.
Doodle Dogs is not the only company alleging serious financial challenges due to construction in the area. Earlier this year, a group of businesses filed a $75-million class-action lawsuit against the City.
While Doodle Dogs will continue to operate out of its other locations, the closure reflects how prolonged construction can disrupt small businesses in Calgary.
Have you avoided the Marda Loop area or found it difficult to access due to construction? Let us know in the comments below.