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, a new traffic signal and repaving of 50 Avenue SW to further enhance roadway safety. 

NOTES:

• Crosswalks, line painting, and markings shown are for conceptual purposes only. Road marking and crosswalks may differ in the final product.
• Proposed roadway and intersection improvements shown may be subject to change, resource permitting. The final product may be different from what is shown.
• Colours of improvements are shown for map visibility, actual colours of improvements will vary.

The project is being delivered in two phases: 

Phase 1 – Completed in 2024

• Removed adaptive roadway on south side of 50 Ave S.W. from 14a St S.W. to 19 St S.W.
• Installed new raised multiuse pathway in place of adaptive roadway 

Phase 2 – Anticipated start Spring 2026

• Extending the multiuse pathway from 19 St S.W. to 22 St S.W.
•  Curb extensions at key locations along the 50^th Ave S.W. to calm traffic and shorten crossing distances
• A new traffic signal at the 20 St S.W. intersection
• Repaving on 50 Ave from 14a St to Crowchild Trail S.W.

he Phase 2 detailed design is complete, with the focus on extending the multiuse pathway with redesigned parking on the south side of 50 Avenue S.W., installing curb extensions at key intersections and a new traffic signal at 20 Street.

Construction impacts

Construction will be staged in segments, with detours through 49 Avenue S.W., 51 Avenue S.W. and other residential streets to maintain access for residents and visitors to Glenmore Athletic Park, River Park Off-Leash Area, and Sandy Beach Park.

During construction, we will maintain front door access to all residences and any disturbances to front yards will be repaired to the original state. 

As construction progresses, we anticipate several impacts on area residents and visitors, including:

• Construction hours: For all construction activities, working hours will generally be from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays and from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. Nighttime work will be needed between 22 Street S.W. and Crowchild Trail S.W.
• Sidewalk closures: The sidewalks along both sides of 50 Avenue S.W. will be closed in segments to remove and replace the concrete. The segments will be staggered to avoid working on both sides of the block at the same time.
• Lane and road closures: Temporary road closures will be in effect in 1-2 block segments for vehicle traffic. Short duration closures will impact access to Crowchild Trail (limited to night work).
• Detours: Throughout construction, temporary detours will be in place using 49 Avenue S.W., 51 Avenue S.W. and other residential side streets and will include parking restrictions. Temporary walking and wheeling detours will also be in place to safely accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.
   Temporary walking and wheeling detours to safely accommodate pedestrians and cycling.  
• Increased truck traffic: In conjunction with the Glenmore Twin Arena project and the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant, we expect a significant increase of heavy truck traffic along 50 Avenue S.W. and the residential side street detour routes.
• Dust, noise and vibrations: Residents and businesses may experience construction noise and vibrations. Efforts will be made to minimize disruption.
• Transit: Bus routes along 50 Avenue S.W. will be temporary rerouted and some bus stops temporarily relocated. For more information, please visit calgarytransit.com.
• Access to Glenmore Athletic Park, Sandy Beach Park and River Park Off-Leash Area: The popular sites will remain open during construction. Please follow on-site detour signage for access.
• Access to schools: Construction near Central Memorial High School and Alternative High School will take place during the summer months where possible to minimize impacts. Access to all area schools will be maintained during the school year.

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 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 multiuse 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 the temporary pathway 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 was installed to accommodate increased pedestrian and cyclist traffic along the corridor, and involved the closure of the eastbound parking lane between 14a Street S.W. and 19 Street S.W.

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 city-wide accessibility goals and equitable access to transportation.
• Addressing climate goals: Encouraging wheeling and walking reduces greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to Calgary’s climate resilience efforts.
• Strategic 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.