Calgary’s cycle track network to connect the city centre

Calgary’s proposed cycle track network plan was leaked to the media ahead of an open house scheduled between 5 and 8 p.m. at the Hotel Arts on Thursday. The five-year plan introduces new dedicated two-way cycle tracks on six streets connecting the downtown area.

In addition to the Seventh Street S.W. track that opened in July, six new tracks are proposed for Eighth Street S.W., Fifth Street S.W., First Street S.E., Eighth Ave., Ninth Ave., and Twelfth Ave. The map and plans are posted on the CBC website.

The city chose the locations based on connectivity, demand, impact on traffic, crossing areas, cost and constructability and public engagement. They form a network that connects people from the Bow River and Elbow River pathways to and within the city centre.

The cycle track network plan’s goal is to provide more transportation opportunities in the downtown area and to use the cycle tracks to increase cycling safety, connect parts of the city and bike facilities, promote better traffic flow, provide better access to business, shops and restaurants, and to consider pedestrian crossings.

According to the plan, the cycle tracks will fit into the existing road widths, and some of the on-street parking and traffic lanes will need to be redesigned. In some cases, one of the traffic lanes will be turned into a two-way cycle track, and in all cases, intersections will be redesigned to improve traffic flow.

The plan proposes to allow bicycles (during certain hours) on the historical Stephen Ave. Walk, a pedestrian mall that runs along Eighth Ave. between First Street S.E. and Fourth Street S.W., which is expected to create concerns.

The cycle track proposed for First Street S.E. has already met some opposition from Coun. Sean Chu, who suggested the space for the cycle track be taken from the sidewalk instead of the roadway.

The upcoming open house meetings are to allow the public to review the network plan and provide feedback.