Decommissioning of Pedestrian Overpass at Chinook Centre
Project update – Winter 2025/2026
The City is currently planning the next steps for this project, including what work will be part of construction. finalizing operational details. We are coordinating with Cadillac Fairview to make the +15 overpass accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Construction is expected to begin in Summer 2026.
About the project
The City of Calgary has identified that the pedestrian overpass across MacLeod Trail near Chinook Centre is in poor condition structurally, deteriorating and at the end of its useful life. In addition to its condition, the overpass does not meet modern standards and there are significant public safety concerns with activities on and around the bridge. As a result, the overpass will be decommissioned.
The pedestrian overpass across Macleod Trail S.W. near Chinook Centre is at the end of its useful life and will be demolished in 2026. The overpass is in poor structural condition and does not meet modern standards. There are also significant public safety concerns with illicit activities on and around the bridge.
Location and project location map
The pedestrian bridge south of 61 Avenue S.W. crosses Macleod Trail between Chinook Centre on the west side and Home Depot to the east.
Scope of work
- Demolish existing pedestrian overpass
- Repair any landscaping and surfaces
- Install new overhead signs
- Open +15 enclosed overpass 24/7
- Relocate bus stops
Traffic impacts
- An overnight closure of Macleod Trail S.W. for overpass removal
- Occasional outside lane closures
Benefits
- Safely decommissioning the pedestrian overpass will remove a redundant, deteriorating asset at the end of its life cycle.
- Removing the overpass and redirecting pedestrian traffic to the +15 overpass at 61 Avenue S.W. provides a safe, covered crossing with 24-hour security closer to the Chinook CTrain station and relocated bus stops along MacLeod Trail.
- The removal will also help address the increasing illicit activity on and around the pedestrian overpass that has created an unsafe environment for pedestrians.
Budget
The estimated investment for this project is $670,000.
Photos of current conditions
Frequently asked questions
Why is the bridge being torn down and not restored?
The pedestrian overpass is in poor structural condition and has deteriorated over time as it reached the end of its useful like. The overpass was built in 1973 and doesn’t meet modern standards for accessibility.
Where can I safely cross MacLeod Trail without the bridge?
The City is working with Cadillac Fairview to open the enclosed +15 overpass at 61 Avenue S.W. 24 hours/day with round-the-clock security.
How will removing the bridge impact Calgary Transit bus stops?
Bus stops along Macleod Trail S.W. will be relocated closer to the +15 overpass.
Will a new pedestrian overpass be replaced in the future?
Currently, there are no plans to build a new pedestrian overpass.
Project timeline
- November 2025 – Traffic assessment and area study
- Spring 2026 – Pedestrian overpass is closed and +15 overpass at 61 Avenue S.W. opens 24/7
- Summer/Fall 2026 – Pedestrian overpass is removed
Contact us
If you have questions or concerns about this project, please contact 311 by phone, online, or through the mobile app.