Calgary’s 5 Street SW underpass project finalized

The City of Calgary announced the completion of 5 Street SW underpass enhancement project in an official opening event on Thursday.

The $7.85 million project included a number of improvements for the design and construction of the underpass, including storm water lift station, and installation of art pieces. It is also aimed to improve safety and accessibility for the nearly 6,500 pedestrians and 1,200 cyclists who pass through each day.

“This project, like our other downtown underpasses, has an integrated design approach focused on the experience of pedestrians, who will spend the most time experiencing the space as they travel through,” says Main Streets and Centre City Program Manager, Joyce Tang.

“These design and aesthetic improvements will help to enhance safety and create a more comfortable experience for the thousands of commuters that pass through each day,” says Project Manager Colin Chapman.

Introduced Improvements:

• Widen sidewalks to provide more space and improve mobility
• Upgrade crosswalks to meet current accessibility standards
• Provide space for trees and vegetation to make the underpass more enjoyable and increase the number of trees within the City Centre
• Improve lighting and safety measures
• Make existing cycle track pilot permanent, maintain cycle counter, and improve comfort for people waiting at intersections
• Narrow the traffic lanes within acceptable standards for vehicles, transit and goods movement
• Ensure that traffic signals meet current operational standards
• Make necessary life cycle improvements to the underpass walls and bridge
• Beautify the appearance of the underpass
• Remove the concrete median and redistribute the space for people walking trees/vegetation.

READ MORE: Calgary plan to create 11 Street SW underpass could eliminate vehicle traffic

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The 5 Street SW underpass connects Calgary’s Beltline and downtown. More than 43,000 people live and 161,000 people work in these two areas.