How Calgary plans to deal with increased traffic during the G7

Virtual reality (VR), updated road signage, and expediting road projects are just some of the things Calgary is doing to keep the city moving during the G7 leaders’ summit.

Increased traffic levels are expected in the coming days with dignitaries passing through the city, and three spots identified as ‘designated demonstration zones’ — the city is warning of traffic changes from June 14 to June 18.

To make those changes easier to deal with, the city says they are able to adapt signal timing, including using VR to place city staff at an intersection to get a better sense of an area.

“Whenever possible, we encourage Calgarians to take transit, bike or walk, or travel at less busy times,” says general manager Doug Moran. “Every little bit will help.”

The city has also expedited, or paused, road and utility work, including reopening the 4th Avenue Flyover to ease traffic congestion.

“For Calgarians who are a little bit frustrated because there are some traffic delays, or a lot more people at your local park, this is temporary,” says Mayor Jyoti Gondek.

Along with the heads of powerful nations, thousands of other delegates and journalists are expected to arrive in the city this weekend. Around 10,000 hotel bookings are tied to the G7.

The designated protest sites have been put in place in an effort to minimize the impact of demonstration for Calgarians.

The designated zones include Municipal Plaza, Victoria Park and the Edward H. LaBorde Viewing Area near Calgary International Airport. Additionally, travelers planning to use the airport between Sunday and next Wednesday are being warned to give themselves extra time.

A number of road closures will be in place around the airport — which can be found here.

The G7 is set to start this Sunday until Tuesday.