The city of Calgary wants feedback on the future of the 11th Street SW section between Eighth and 11 Avenue SW
City officials have released a series of design concepts showing potential plans for the area, and some plans do not include access to traffic.
“11 Street SW provides a vital link between Beltline and downtown downtown through the barrier of the CP railroad that separates downtown Calgary,” the city’s website said.
“With the closure of 8 Street SE, 11 Street SW is the only remaining railway crossing in the city center. As a key link for access to parks, grocery stores, restaurants, shopping facilities, residential buildings and offices in the area, it is important to provide a convenient and attractive transport choice for Kalgari of all ages and abilities. “
The recommended plan of the city is for the so-called “underpass for active travel modes”.
This means that traffic will be closed between Ninth Avenue and 10th Avenue SW to focus on pedestrian and bicycle safety, and a playground will be built.
“The recommended plan has given priority to the pedestrian experience,” said Shane LeButille, a transport engineer in the city’s June 15 open house.
“It reduces car addiction and invests in creating a vibrant destination in downtown Calgary and visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy.”
Four plans have been proposed to the public, but the recommended plans do not include vehicles.
The alternative plan will include bike lanes, footpaths and traffic.
The city says participation in Phase 2 of the project has led to a fairly even division for people who want to eliminate vehicle traffic and those who want to continue with it.
The project will also see the CP Rail line expand from two tracks to four.
The plan will include sidewalks two meters wide on each side of the road, a 1.5 meter wide bike lane and a three meter wide multifunctional path.
There will also be concepts for interaction, play, fitness, leisure and art in the area.
The city says revival is key in this area.
“This is the only remaining crossroads in the city after the closure of Eighth Street SW,” said LeButille.
The section of the road connects the Bow River with the north-south belt line.
Jeff Bouziak lives three blocks from the level crossing.
“I don’t just agree with pedestrians,” Buziak said.
“We have winter here too, which is not a great time for pedestrians.”
He believes that the movement of vehicles must remain.
“Calgary is such a beautiful city that we have a good combination of access for everyone and hindering one or the other is not a good thing,” Bouziak said.
“I think we have enough space here to make a combination of the two.”
There is currently no funding for the project.
The design concept has not been finalized by the city, but a detailed plan will be sent to the city council this fall, once all public commitments are accepted by June 29.
To learn more about the project, you can visit the Calgary City website.
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