50 Avenue S.W. improvements

We are completing the 50 Avenue S.W. Improvements in phases. The project will include a permanent multiuse pathway from 14a St S.W. to 22 St S.W. and connect with The City of Calgary’s expansive 5A network.

The new pathway will replace the existing sidewalk along the south side of 50 Avenue, with redesigned on-street parking between 19 St S.W. and 22 St S.W.

The project will also include curb extensions and a new traffic signal to further enhance roadway safety. 

The project is being delivered in two phases: 

50 Avenue S.W. provides access to the residential communities of Altadore, Garrison Woods and North Glenmore Park. It also connects people to schools and destinations like the Glenmore Athletic Park, River Park and Sandy Beach. As a result, it is well-used by people who walk, bike, take transit and drive.

In 2017, The City of Calgary conducted a transportation corridor study of 50 Avenue S.W. between Crowchild Trail and 14a Street S.W.  The final recommended plan for 50 Avenue S.W. included a multi-use pathway on the south side of 50 Avenue S.W. along with various other improvements. Funding for construction was not available at that time.

In 2020, The city constructed a temporary adaptive pathway between 19 St and 14a Street S.W. to allow for cyclists to use the south side of 50 Avenue S.W.

The City of Calgary's Adaptive Roadway Program installed infrastructure on 50 Avenue S.W. as part of its efforts to provide more space for walking, cycling, and other activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. This specific installation, involving the closure of the eastbound parking lane between 14a Street S.W. and 19 Street S.W., was implemented to accommodate increased pedestrian and cyclist traffic along the corridor.

Information gathered from the 2017 Engagement, operational history of the temporary adaptive pathway and current plans for the Glenmore Athletic Park were used to develop the option being constructed today.

This project supports Calgary’s Council priorities by:

• Enhancing safety and accessibility: Off-street wheeling lanes improve safety by providing bicycles, scooters, skateboards and other wheeling users a separate space from vehicles.
• Promoting social equity: Off-street wheeling lanes offer cost-effective, healthy, and inclusive transportation options, enhancing citywide accessibility goals and equitable access to transportation.
• Addressing climate goals: Encouraging wheeling and walking reduces greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to Calgary’s climate resilience efforts.
• Strategic infrastructure investments: This initiative is part of a broader strategy to invest in Calgary’s infrastructure, improving safety, reducing congestion, and fostering a healthier community.

Under the Pathways and Bikeways (5A) program, council approved investing, $59 million to improve existing connections by closing the gaps in our existing network.