The project boundary includes Stephen Ave / 8th Avenue S. from 11th Street SW to 1 ST SE. The Avenue spans three diverse character areas within the Downtown. To address the specific needs and goals of each character area, the design proposes three distinct streetscape typologies. These typologies, while tailored to their respective character areas, work together to create a cohesive and connected Avenue. 

To meet the needs of different parts of Stephen Avenue, the master plan suggests three types of street designs:

1. Shared Street: The eastern part will be a pedestrian-focused area where people’s comfort and safety come first. Most vehicles will not be allowed, except for emergency and maintenance vehicles. This design will make it easier for people to walk around and enjoy patios, public seating, events, and activities throughout the year, drawing both locals and visitors.
2. Transition: The middle section will connect the Shared Street to the Multi-Modal Street. This area will change from two-way to one-way traffic heading east. This will help guide cars off the Avenue before they reach the Shared Street.
3. Multi-Modal Street: The western part will have space for different types of transportation, like cars, bikes, and pedestrians. This area will have two-way traffic and include walkways, bike lanes, green spaces, and seating. The Downtown West neighborhood is quickly changing, with offices being turned into homes and new buildings being added. This design will provide amenities for people who live and work nearby.

In 2019, the Stephen Avenue project kicked off its first phase with a public realm study that provided a vision and roadmap for the future success of Stephen Avenue. Throughout the public realm study process, citizens and partners were engaged to understand challenges and opportunities for Stephen Avenue and define what success looks like.

Stephen Avenue is Calgary’s main connector to arts, culture and commerce and offers a stage for experimentation and innovation. A 21st century street, Stephen Avenue links Calgary’s walkable urban core to its neighbourhoods through a great public realm. Active day and night, and throughout the year, Stephen Avenue is a catalyst for a resilient economy, enabling adaptation towards Calgary’s future. As Calgary’s premier local and tourist destination, Stephen Avenue fosters social interaction, civic gathering, and community pride.

Explore the Public Realm Study to learn more about the work completed in Phase 1

The Activate + Experiment on Stephen Avenue program was started in 2021 following a successful request for funding from the Council Innovation Fund. 

The program prototyped creative public realm ideas along the Avenue that aligned with the City’s Future of Stephen Avenue Public Realm Action Plan.