City of Calgary backtracks on decision to remove cycle track

The city of Calgary announced its decision to maintain a cycle track along in the downtown core until 2024, despite initially indicating its intention to remove it.

The track was nstalled in 2021 as a temporary detour during the reconstruction of the Bow River pathway through Eau Claire, however, the bike lane faced potential removal plans in June. This led to a campaign among cyclists advocating for its preservation.

A petition has been launched to push the City of Calgary to prevent the city from removing the Third Avenue South cycle track and make it permanent. #yyc pic.twitter.com/LOkxPWL68D

— Global Calgary (@GlobalCalgary) June 29, 2023

“Members of City Council have heard from many Calgarians expressing the importance of the 3 Avenue temporary cycling detour and have advocated for an interim cycling solution to remain in place, while we design permanent cycling infrastructure for this important east-west corridor,” read the release by the city.

The cycle track is also set to receive a fresh set of paint. According to the statement, there will also be a permanent east-west cycling connection in 2024.

🎉 3rd AVE CYCLE TRACK IS SAVED!

Greater Downtown communities will be eager to see permanent plans in 2024.

Thanks to everyone who helped advocate with us!#yycbike https://t.co/Pg8U4WRhWy

— Project Calgary (@project_calgary) August 30, 2023