[DavidKuitunen]

Update anything cycling related in the city. Such as new and current bike-lanes, pathways, pedestrian and bike bridges. Vent your frustration about motorist if you're a cyclist or vise versa. Post images, and discuss best and worst cycling areas in Calgary. Those are just a few ideas for this thread.

For some reason or another in years past there was a prejudice against the bicycle. The high wheels were said to be dangerous, and when speedy-geared safeties were introduced they were not taken too kindly. Now however, all is changed. The prejudice has been removed and a man can mount a machine and pedal through the toughest of localities without fear of being molested by street arabs and called a dude.

New York Times, 1894

[DavidKuitunen]

http://www.bikeforest.com/canoe/starting_in_calgary1.jpg
http://www.calgaryherald.com/entertainment/movie-guide/calgary+cyclists+slowing+down+after+crackdown/1887644/1887645.bin?size=620x400
http://www.michaelmckinlay.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/DSCN4536.JPG
http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12132_3_wan%20calatrava%20peace%20bridge%20calgary.jpg
http://static.worldarchitecturenews.com/news_images/12132_2_WAN%20calatrava%20calgary%20bridge.jpg

[MasterG]

I have been an avid biker for years, for getting from A to B and from cycling for fun. Overall the river pathway system is great thing, combined with fish creek paths and nose creek, you can get around quite nicely.

One thing i really like is the addition last year of the stretch of path linking the north side of edworthy park (Bowness Rd NW at Shaganappi NW) to the top of the interchange at the foothills- childrens hospital area.
Before that was built, to get to the University I had to hustle with the Trans Canada traffic for a stretch, not a pleasant experience.

Bigest problem: Calgary is a very hilly place haha. Everyday that edworthy park coulee road SW is brutal, but at least some good exercise. Someone is going to be killed on that road one day, people drive like maniacs around those curves!

Good idea for a thread! Calgary is a great biking city

[lubicon]

In the past few weeks I have noticed dedicated (or at least painted) bike lanes on streets in Glendale and Hillhurst/West Hillhurst. I believe the street in Glendale was 26 Ave SW, and in Hillhurst it was 6 Ave NW. In Hillhurst they have actually removed one vehicle lane (there used to be 2) and made one bike lane and a wider vehicle lane. Signs are posted to remind motorists to share the road.

[kw5150]

I bike to work all summer and part of the spring and fall and I love the pathway system. We are all so fortunate to have such a great bike path system.

I am very excited for this new biker and pedestrian link across the river. The current bridge (uner the LRT line) is quite annoying mostly because of the impatient bikers that try to run people down and aggresively ringing their bells. Cant these (usually men) wait 10 seconds longer to cross the river under the LRT line?

I dont really see why curbs are needed on the new peace bridge. Why not just painted lines or different paving like vancouvers oceanfront pathway? Are these just there to control those annoying, aggressive power bikers that try to run people over? I think so. I can only imagine how they drive their cars..... lol

These curbs are more of a hazard than anything... I hope the name of the bridge brings some order and patience with it. Enjoy life people! and dont ruin it for the people that are trying to enjoy it more by biking!

[glam]

Hi MasterG, I go through the same area as you do - starting in Signature Parke, down through Bow/Sarcee, down through Edworthy and then up West Campus Drive, etc and then over to the research park. Yes, that path is quite convenient (at least on the way down), although I actually prefer to take Shag-16 Ave on the way up to the interchange because it's a more consistent grade and doesn't meander. The shoulder on 16th is quite wide although all the gravel sucks - I'll definitely get back to the path if the roads are bad!

I know what you mean about the odd vehicle that bombs down Edworthy - esp. these days with all the ice coating the curves. Have you ever checked out bikecalgary.org? Great forum with lots of local commuters/racers/whatever sharing up-to-date info on routes, conditions, gear, incidents and lots of bike-infrastructure advocacy activities. I'm not connected with them at all but I've found it an invaluable resource...

[kw5150]

I find it so amazing how the bike paths have a rush hour. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy to see so many people using the paths. Along with the LRT, Calgary is an environmentally (and physically) conscious city. Give yourselves all a pat on the back! If you are also just trying to save money, you can also give yourself a pat on the back for being more phisically fit because of it!

Calgary is really growing on me. I love those hot afternoons after work when the trails are packed while I am heading home.

[Wooster]

I think the curbs on the peace bridge will be fine as long as the curb isn't too high so that pedals don't get stuck on them. Some grade separation is good I think.

[kw5150]

I think the curbs on the peace bridge will be fine as long as the curb isn't too high so that pedals don't get stuck on them. Some grade separation is good I think.

But see.... you said "fine." You didn't say "good." lol

I still say no to curbs.

[Wooster]

^ I do think it's good. It helps keep cyclists from swerving into pedestrian traffic.

[kw5150]

^ I do think it's good. It helps keep cyclists from swerving into pedestrian traffic.

I hear ya..... but if they didn't swerve and the world was perfect......

[Canterra]

I like the curb idea also.
The bridge will be over 6m wide so the curbs will not be a hazard in most situations.

I also like how the city plows many of pathways along the bow in the winter.
In the winter I cross over to the north side at edworthy for that reason.

[bigcanuck]

I think the curbs on the peace bridge will be fine as long as the curb isn't too high so that pedals don't get stuck on them. Some grade separation is good I think.

Plus, the skateboarders will love 'em.

[Wentworth]

Bigest problem: Calgary is a very hilly place haha. Everyday that edworthy park coulee road SW is brutal, but at least some good exercise. Someone is going to be killed on that road one day, people drive like maniacs around those curves!

Good idea for a thread! Calgary is a great biking city


I never realized how hilly Calgary actually is until I started cycling more this year. The elevation change from my place down to river level is almost 600'. That's way more elevation than I ever had to deal with cycling in Vancouver. (Short of riding up to Grouse Mountain.)

The pathway system is great, but there's not much developed up here on the West edge of the city, just random bits here and there in various communities. I'd love to see a pathway built alongside the West and SouthWest ring roads and integrated into the Bow Valley Pathway.

[MasterG]

Hi MasterG, I go through the same area as you do - starting in Signature Parke, down through Bow/Sarcee, down through Edworthy and then up West Campus Drive, etc and then over to the research park. Yes, that path is quite convenient (at least on the way down), although I actually prefer to take Shag-16 Ave on the way up to the interchange because it's a more consistent grade and doesn't meander. The shoulder on 16th is quite wide although all the gravel sucks - I'll definitely get back to the path if the roads are bad!

I know what you mean about the odd vehicle that bombs down Edworthy - esp. these days with all the ice coating the curves. Have you ever checked out bikecalgary.org? Great forum with lots of local commuters/racers/whatever sharing up-to-date info on routes, conditions, gear, incidents and lots of bike-infrastructure advocacy activities. I'm not connected with them at all but I've found it an invaluable resource...


I haven't heard about that site, thanks for the reference! that could prove to be what i was looking for.

It's nice to hear that someone else has to put up with that gruelling hill, haha. In up in the coach hill/patterson area, so after edworthy its more uphill for me too. At least we no don't have to put in any time at the gym after that commute!

For me its about 25 mins door - to - door in the morning, usually 35 - 45 on the way back due to the increased hill. Its quite a bit faster than taking the bus, and its competitive with a car (due to a long walk from the lots on campus), minus the 4 dollar parking.
I hope it stays nice for a least a few more weeks, some mornings are getting pretty sketch going downhill. Im frozen by the time i reach the river!

[MichaelS]

The pathway system is great, but there's not much developed up here on the West edge of the city, just random bits here and there in various communities. I'd love to see a pathway built alongside the West and SouthWest ring roads and integrated into the Bow Valley Pathway.

I think there are plans for a ring pathway system that would follow the ring road the whole way around the city.

[DavidKuitunen]

^ I do think it's good. It helps keep cyclists from swerving into pedestrian traffic.

A curb is definitely not a bad idea for a bridge. It'll be easier to walk and ride across than the LRT bridge. It would be nice to see Calgary with waterfront pathways that resembled Vancouver's. I hate when I'm riding down the path and all the sudden there is a huge flock of people standing around in the middle of the path. Usually a family with little kids. There should be something that separates the pedestrians and cyclist for safety. Especially considering that the pathway's are going to be seeing more and more users every year.

Vancouver's divided pathway system:
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1106/1437463914_696faa4c86.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1137/1437464018_a2c361ccfc_o.jpg
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1401/1436599267_23d6986454.jpg

[MarkL]

Can we at least all agree that we hate joggers?

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2616/3681225043_b148128a07.jpg

[Strongbow]

Everyday that edworthy park coulee road SW is brutal, but at least some good exercise. Someone is going to be killed on that road one day, people ride like maniacs around those curves!

...fixed that for ya there....I'm part of the workout group that assembles there at 5:00am during the weekdays and holy moley there are some fast moving cyclists that come down that hill, even with the ice....a few weeks ago some friends of mine had a biker cut the corner into their lane doing about 40kmh and plow into the front of their jetta, they lost the grille, hood and windshield, he got an ambulance ride out of it...

[DavidKuitunen]

In the past few weeks I have noticed dedicated (or at least painted) bike lanes on streets in Glendale and Hillhurst/West Hillhurst. I believe the street in Glendale was 26 Ave SW, and in Hillhurst it was 6 Ave NW. In Hillhurst they have actually removed one vehicle lane (there used to be 2) and made one bike lane and a wider vehicle lane. Signs are posted to remind motorists to share the road.

The Plan

The bicycle route improvement plan was coordinated with the West Hillhurst Community Transportation Study in 2008. Based on the feedback from the community and Calgary cyclists, here is the final plan:

http://www.calgary.ca/DocGallery/BU/trans_planning/cycling/bike_improv_19street.pdf

http://www.calgary.ca/DocGallery/BU/trans_planning/cycling/bike_improv_5street.pdf

A few highlights of the plan:


Bicycle lanes on 5th Avenue N.W. from just east of 14th Street West to 19th Street West.
Shared lanes with bicycle stencils on 5th Avenue between 19th Street N.W. and Crowchild Trail.
Bicycle lanes on 5th Avenue N.W. for eastbound and westbound cyclists approaching Crowchild Trail.
Shared lanes with bicycle stencils on 19th Street N.W. from Broadview Road to 10th Avenue N.W.
An off-street bicycle lane northbound (up the hill) on 19 Street N.W. to provide more comfort for cyclists.
Alternative routing along 17A Street N.W. for cyclists who want a more gradual hill with less traffic.
A half signal across Kensington Road at 21st Street N.W. that can be activated by cyclists (push buttons).


*taken from the city website.

[kw5150]

Can we at least all agree that we hate joggers?

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2616/3681225043_b148128a07.jpg

Yes, we hate joggers that jog 4-8 wide accross.

[MasterG]

...fixed that for ya there....I'm part of the workout group that assembles there at 5:00am during the weekdays and holy moley there are some fast moving cyclists that come down that hill, even with the ice....a few weeks ago some friends of mine had a biker cut the corner into their lane doing about 40kmh and plow into the front of their jetta, they lost the grille, hood and windshield, he got an ambulance ride out of it...

wow that sucks, im not surprised it happened though. Visability is pretty low in that valley. Its amazing the speed that some of those bikers take the turns this time of year, when the ice is all over the place

[Canterra]

I like going down there after a fresh snowfall before they clear it.
The snow slows you down so you don't have to brake much.

[glam]

...fixed that for ya there....I'm part of the workout group that assembles there at 5:00am during the weekdays and holy moley there are some fast moving cyclists that come down that hill, even with the ice....a few weeks ago some friends of mine had a biker cut the corner into their lane doing about 40kmh and plow into the front of their jetta, they lost the grille, hood and windshield, he got an ambulance ride out of it...

Wow, I passed by this accident just as the cops arrived that morning. I had a later start that day. Yes, that was a horribly risky and pointless thing to do, bomb down on the wrong side of the road. Were your friends able to recoup their costs from the guy's insurance?

I've had my share of encounters with the bootcampers on Edworthy, when I used to go in a lot earlier (pre-kids) than I do now. It was nice to see the groups begin to adopt more lighting as time went on, as there were a number of times when there people with logs and chains and what not were coming up the entire width of the road! I'll admit that I'm usually trucking down there too, but I'm lit up like a christmas tree and slow down a lot when I see people coming up from below.

[DavidKuitunen]

I went for a soggy ride today. Here are some pictures i took in Hillhurst, and East Village.

New bike lane from 14th to 19th Street on 5th Ave NW. It's amazing what a little bit of road paint and a few signs can do to improve a bike ride.
Some guy was driving in the bike lane right behind me for almost two blocks before he realized it was a bike lane. Some people amaze me.
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_7tAj5KXjoZY/SxA6alCWb-I/AAAAAAAAAG0/jwhvIPEfqkw/IMG_7797.JPG

The new curbs on 19th Street. Smooth sailing all the way up the hill :-)
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_7tAj5KXjoZY/SxA6bAoykSI/AAAAAAAAAG4/BCoj8y6nG7M/IMG_7798.JPG

New bike locks in East Village. It'll be nice when the bow river pathway comes out here and the underpass to Victoria park is complete.
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_7tAj5KXjoZY/SxA6UTvi83I/AAAAAAAAAF4/pwWxXedPANE/s512/IMG_7782.JPG

[Wentworth]

^ Is the fixie yours? Can't imagine trying to climb up Bow Trail with that!

[niwell]

People ride fixies in Calgary? I'm still in awe of anyone biking north in Toronto that does that. In Calgary it would be in any direction out of downtown. Hills + fixies don't mix well.

Also, that's a wide bike lane. Nice.

[DavidKuitunen]

^ Is the fixie yours? Can't imagine trying to climb up Bow Trail with that!

Ya it's mine. I don't usually leave downtown with it though. I stay in the flat part of Calgary. It's pretty challenging getting up and down hills, but it's a good work out.

[thager]

heres a link to the pathway map pdf .

http://www.calgary.ca/docgallery/BU/engineering_services/emaps/bicycle_pathways_map.pdf

[Strongbow]

Wow, I passed by this accident just as the cops arrived that morning. I had a later start that day. Yes, that was a horribly risky and pointless thing to do, bomb down on the wrong side of the road. Were your friends able to recoup their costs from the guy's insurance?

I've had my share of encounters with the bootcampers on Edworthy, when I used to go in a lot earlier (pre-kids) than I do now. It was nice to see the groups begin to adopt more lighting as time went on, as there were a number of times when there people with logs and chains and what not were coming up the entire width of the road! I'll admit that I'm usually trucking down there too, but I'm lit up like a christmas tree and slow down a lot when I see people coming up from below.

....lighting is one of our mandatory pieces of equipment, years ago we weren't quite as prepared....and we're a lot more conscious of the bikes so staying to the side is taught early on to the newbs in the course....it's a happier world when we all play together well in the same sandbox...

[Wooster]

People ride fixies in Calgary? I'm still in awe of anyone biking north in Toronto that does that. In Calgary it would be in any direction out of downtown. Hills + fixies don't mix well.

Also, that's a wide bike lane. Nice.

In Toronto, fixed gear is a hipster fashion statement, but it should be an old delapitated bike with a basket on it. User must be wearing ironic attire. ;)

[DavidKuitunen]

In Toronto, fixed gear is a hipster fashion statement, but it should be an old delapitated bike with a basket on it. User must be wearing ironic attire. ;)

Ya and you have to have a deathwish to be cool like these guys...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F0AFpq6jFok

[glam]

I know a number of guys who ride fixie in Calgary, and even year-round. Some ride up the hills everyday (including this 50ish year-old guy who I ride with occasionally) who lives out in Springbank Hill or they play bike polo on them, etc. These guys are nuts. It's a daily reminder that my legs are weak and my cardio sucks :) The majority that I know have either been commuting for decades, or they used to race, etc.

I haven't encountered the urban hipster types on them but the commuters I know that ride them do it for the exercise, and because the bike is lighter, less moving parts to break down, and it makes it look like much less of a theft target to the average Joe - esp in downtown.

Nice bike by the way!

[DizzyEdge]

I dunno, it is a nice bike, but bikes with no brakes still make me :rolleyes:

[kw5150]

Lets not lose this thread.......

[DavidKuitunen]

good call:previous:
here's a link to the eastvillage riverwalk just for fun. http://www.calgarymlc.ca/rivers_projects/riverwalk/about_riverwalk/riverwalk_video/
And also the Riverwalk Master Plan PDF http://www.calgarymlc.ca/_uploads/caef7f76-6482-102c-96d8-003048c28980/riverwalk_masterplan_final_may_2008.pdf

[outoftheice]

When I was in Paris last year I discovered that they had automated bike rental kiosks all through the centre of the city. Each kiosk had space for six of seven bikes and was equipped with a credit card payment machine. You were able to rent the bike for however long you wanted with the rate set at $X per Y minutes. The great thing was that you were able to return the bikes to any kiosk and not just the one that you rented from. It is my understanding that Montreal has a similar system down in the old city.

I think the City and the Calgary Municipal Land Corp should partner with a similar set-up along the river walk. I was thinking if they were to install kiosks at Millennium Park, Sunnyside LRT Station, Eau Claire Market, the new river-walk plaza at the Simmons Building, the south parking lot of the Zoo, the proposed Ramsay SE LRT station and Erlton/Stampede LRT station that the program would be a big success. It would be great for tourists and Calgarians alike to take transit downtown and explore the new river-walk or some of the key attractions in downtown on bikes.

The key questions are, would the program be a success? Can it be made to be cost-neutral or even profitable? And would the taxpayers (and really when it comes down to it, the local media) who said no to pedestrian bridges be willing to accept spending money on the initial start-up costs?

[Jimby]

Montreal has Bixi

http://montreal.bixi.com

[outoftheice]

Is Bixi owned/operated by the City of Montreal?? This is exactly what I think Calgary needs downtown, with stations placed in the locations I suggested. Why isn't this being done here?? To me, it just makes sense!!

[DavidKuitunen]

Is Bixi owned/operated by the City of Montreal?? This is exactly what I think Calgary needs downtown, with stations placed in the locations I suggested. Why isn't this being done here?? To me, it just makes sense!!

Bixi operates in London, Ottawa, and Boston as well. Calgary has so much potential because of our extensive pathway system. We're lacking in on street cycling lanes, and traffic calming.

[DavidKuitunen]

http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/news/story.html?id=0c0371af-bb0c-4386-b223-c8e73a31ed6a

Calgary city council voted against bike sharing.

[DavidKuitunen]

Bike Sharing Station
http://jcwinnie.biz/wordpress/imageSnag/bike-share-seville.jpg

Bike Parking in Tokyo
lRjN6Y7tTV8

[MasterG]

One thing that calgary could use is certain roads being developed into greenways, with nice wide bike paths/ pedestrian sections. You should check out some of the designs on the vancouver section of SSP, they have come up with some great looking designs and routes.

[Aegis]

Just got my bike-trainer set up.. it rocks! (Thank you MEC). Don't have to start winter-riding after all.

[puddlesray]

http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/news/story.html?id=0c0371af-bb0c-4386-b223-c8e73a31ed6a

Calgary city council voted against bike sharing.

Geez, it was only a proposal to look into the possibility of bike sharing and they still turned it down. They shot down the idea to probe/explore the idea of having it in Calgary. Not worth their time or taxpayers' money, I wonder? If it was the latter, you could probably do a thousand studies for the cost of one interchange in the 'burbs.

[MasterG]

Did anyone see the Herald today? they were talking about the East Calgary Greenway. It is my understanding that its being built right next to the ring road. Is that correct? The article said that the greenway will eventually circle the entire city, which may offer a pretty sweet ride :)

As for Bike sharing: I think it could work in Calgary, but only for certain areas. The river pathway system could have rental stations all along from bowness park, shoudice park, edworthy park and so on right on through to Prince's Island and the new Riverwalk in the EV. I think that one of the main problems would be the hills, as rental bikes are unlikely to offer the gear ratios needed to climb out of the valley :) . thoughts?

[DavidKuitunen]

Did anyone see the Herald today? they were talking about the East Calgary Greenway. It is my understanding that its being built right next to the ring road. Is that correct? The article said that the greenway will eventually circle the entire city, which may offer a pretty sweet ride :)

As for Bike sharing: I think it could work in Calgary, but only for certain areas. The river pathway system could have rental stations all along from bowness park, shoudice park, edworthy park and so on right on through to Prince's Island and the new Riverwalk in the EV. I think that one of the main problems would be the hills, as rental bikes are unlikely to offer the gear ratios needed to climb out of the valley :) . thoughts?

Those would be perfect sites for stations. Although I can't see people using them other than for recreation. I think it would be good to have stations near Sunnyside c-train station and Erlton c-train as well as Talisman park, Stanely park, a few small ones along 10th Ave, and the other ones you mentioned.

The city should build bike lanes on 10th Ave comparable to this:
http://blog.pps.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/bike-lane.jpg

[DavidKuitunen]

http://maps.google.ca/maps?hl=en&q=calgary&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Calgary,+Division+No.+6,+Alberta&ll=51.04362,-114.073555&spn=0.007555,0.01929&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.043619,-114.0734&panoid=p_C3HwWo09mEDUXgt-xB2A&cbp=12,270.55,,0,5

As you can see people don't understand the concept of a bike lane in Calgary. People always treat this road like the bike lane doesn't exist. I've been honked at a few times on this road by old rednecks that can't grasp the concept.

[Aegis]

http://maps.google.ca/maps?hl=en&q=calgary&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Calgary,+Division+No.+6,+Alberta&ll=51.04362,-114.073555&spn=0.007555,0.01929&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.043619,-114.0734&panoid=p_C3HwWo09mEDUXgt-xB2A&cbp=12,270.55,,0,5

As you can see people don't understand the concept of a bike lane in Calgary. People always treat this road like the bike lane doesn't exist. I've been honked at a few times on this road by old rednecks that can't grasp the concept.

I wish the City would do a proper job in promoting the rules/expectations associated with bike lanes. The only promotion I've seen has been to alert people that they exist, but not to say "no cars allowed", etc.

I am not sure which City department is responsible for enforcing the rules, ie: Calgary Police Service under the AB Highway Traffic Act, or City of Calgary Bylaw..

[Wentworth]

1990s model pick-up truck: $5999
Carton of american cigarettes on the dash board: $59.99
Walmart baseball cap: $5.99
Shampoo to wash mullet: n/a
Making a statement against society by driving in the bike lane*: priceless

(*And without your seatbelt on)

http://i50.tinypic.com/f9m51w.jpg

[DavidKuitunen]

:previous: This person is oblivious. Kind of makes me wonder if i'm being made fun of somewhere out in cyberspace.

[DavidKuitunen]

ibCcp0Y3OB0

Copenhagen has an amazing model for urban cycling infrastructure. Every city should learn from.

[MalcolmTucker]

Geez, it was only a proposal to look into the possibility of bike sharing and they still turned it down. They shot down the idea to probe/explore the idea of having it in Calgary. Not worth their time or taxpayers' money, I wonder? If it was the latter, you could probably do a thousand studies for the cost of one interchange in the 'burbs.

In most other places the bike sharing is funded out of the street furniture advertising agreement. Would make sense to wait until that came up again. Also, not sure where the money goes from that agreement - it may be put 100% back into transit, which could potentially cost transit revenue if we forced the company to provide an additional service.

Paris's bike sharing has turned out to be really expensive to operate, given that experience I am not sure whether private companies would really offer to install at a reasonable price.

[You Need A Thneed]

I posted in the Calgary Construction Thread yesterday, but I'll post it here too.

It looks like the pedestrian bridge over Metis Trail by mcKnight Westwinds staion is gearing up to go ahead. There were Atco Office Trailers and a container dropped of on site yesterday.

[DavidKuitunen]

http://www.evexperience.com/sites/default/files/imagecache/Large/stories/rw_3D_view_cam-07.jpg

Looks like East Village riverwalk has a designated bike lane. I hope when they build it they have markings clearly showing that the lane is for bikes.

[kw5150]

Looks like agreat weekend to get the bike out. +10 for saturday and sunday.

[You Need A Thneed]

I posted in the Calgary Construction Thread yesterday, but I'll post it here too.

It looks like the pedestrian bridge over Metis Trail by mcKnight Westwinds staion is gearing up to go ahead. There were Atco Office Trailers and a container dropped of on site yesterday.

Construction is in full force now.

[DavidKuitunen]

I moved out of Calgary so if anyone is out taking pictures and can get a good shot of the riverwalk progress that would be awesome. Also any peace bridge photos would be great to post on this thread as well.

[MarkL]

The new War Memorial designed by Marc Boutin uses a Cor-Ten steel for both the monument and a significant widening and realignment of the pathway around and under the Louise Bridge into Kensington. It also looks like, in the process of building the new War Memorial that the entire chaotic alignment of paths around the Memorial Drive, 10th Street intersection will be redone.

:banana:

Pics on Marc Boutin's web site.

http://www.the-mbac.ca/site.html

[Wooster]

Aldermen seek another bike safety review

Issues include speed limits, cycling lanes

By Kim Guttormson, Calgary Herald March 8, 2010

Jessie Burke was biking on the paths behind Eau Claire Market on March 7, 2010 in Calgary. Bike speed and routes will be back on city council's radar Monday, two weeks after it voted down a review of how fast two-wheelers can travel on pathways.

Bike speed and routes will be back on city council's radar today, two weeks after it voted down a review of how fast two-wheelers can travel on pathways.

Four aldermen are calling for a comprehensive cycling strategy and a safety review of the pathways used by bikes, pedestrians and others.

Ald. Druh Farrell said that with the city's greater emphasis on getting people out of their cars, a new plan to make that easier is needed.

"We need a commitment on timing and financing," said Farrell, who is putting forward the notice of motion with Bob Hawkesworth, Joe Ceci and Brian Pincott.

She said a plan is required that makes it easier to cycle all around the city, whether you want to ride for fun, to work or just to pick up groceries.

"We're still building roads that don't have cycling lanes," she noted. "We've been nibbling around the edges when it comes to cycling amenities. Historically, we've treated it as recreation."

Read More.
http://www.calgaryherald.com/travel/Aldermen+seek+another+bike+safety+review/2653089/story.html

[mooky]

:previous:

"Liberal" Druh is being roasted in the comments section of an article, again. This city if full of some thick people, really!

[Wooster]

:previous:

"Liberal" Druh is being roasted in the comments section of an article, again. This city if full of some thick people, really!

Actually, once again the Herald has pulled that article off their website. What is with that, it happened a week or so ago to another article.

[Wooster]

Calgary bicycling review won't sidetrack improvements


By Kim Guttormson, Calgary HeraldMarch 8, 2010 5:12 PM

CALGARY - The city is moving ahead on a comprehensive cycling strategy, but council was told that it shouldn’t delay any improvements to riding already in the works.

At least one cycling group was concerned that hopes for adding a bike lane to 5th and 6th Avenues through downtown would be put on hold if council revisited how to better incorporate bikes.

The strategy, asked for by Aldermen Druh Farrell, Bob Hawkesworth, Joe Ceci and Brian Pincott, will provide a framework for the timing and cost of making improvements to bike routes, including making it easier to cycle all around the city and not just commuting into downtown.

It also asks for a safety review of the city’s multi-use pathway system, where three people died last year.

...


Read more: http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/Calgary+bicycling+review+sidetrack+improvements/2658625/story.html#ixzz0hdscJfsz

[DavidKuitunen]

The new War Memorial designed by Marc Boutin uses a Cor-Ten steel for both the monument and a significant widening and realignment of the pathway around and under the Louise Bridge into Kensington. It also looks like, in the process of building the new War Memorial that the entire chaotic alignment of paths around the Memorial Drive, 10th Street intersection will be redone.

:banana:

Pics on Marc Boutin's web site.

http://www.the-mbac.ca/site.html

Thats an awesome website! Makes me want to go back to school and take architecture. Thanks for sharing that!

[DavidKuitunen]

http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/2419872.bin?size=620x400

I like the idea of this project, but it really doesn't connect well to any other existing bike routes. It would be nice if this pathway could somehow be connected to the second phase of the riverwalk pathway on the eastside of the stampede grounds.

[kw5150]

http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/2419872.bin?size=620x400

I like the idea of this project, but it really doesn't connect well to any other existing bike routes. It would be nice if this pathway could somehow be connected to the second phase of the riverwalk pathway on the eastside of the stampede grounds.

Yes, this will be a great project with more space for trees + greenery. That image reminds me of west vancouver. The rendering is only a concept though. The actual drawings are quite different I believe.

[zooropa]

Yes, this will be a great project with more space for trees + greenery. That image reminds me of west vancouver. The rendering is only a concept though. The actual drawings are quite different I believe.

where in West Vancouver? Something we can see in Google StreetView?

[fusili]

http://maps.google.ca/maps?hl=en&q=calgary&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Calgary,+Division+No.+6,+Alberta&ll=51.04362,-114.073555&spn=0.007555,0.01929&z=16&layer=c&cbll=51.043619,-114.0734&panoid=p_C3HwWo09mEDUXgt-xB2A&cbp=12,270.55,,0,5

As you can see people don't understand the concept of a bike lane in Calgary. People always treat this road like the bike lane doesn't exist. I've been honked at a few times on this road by old rednecks that can't grasp the concept.

There is no bike lane on 10th avenue. There is a sign telling people to share the road and a painted picture of a bike on the road itself. It is terrible. Calgary needs to understand what an actual bike lane is. Separated by a curb, or with differential paving. That is a bike lane. What is on 10th Avenue is just a sign.

[DavidKuitunen]

There is no bike lane on 10th avenue. There is a sign telling people to share the road and a painted picture of a bike on the road itself. It is terrible. Calgary needs to understand what an actual bike lane is. Separated by a curb, or with differential paving. That is a bike lane. What is on 10th Avenue is just a sign.

The signs on the road don't mean it's exclusive to bikes. Cars can still pass slow moving vehicles. Cars shouldn't treat that part of the road as a lane of their own. Which is what a lot of people do.

10th Ave would be perfect for a legitimate bike "lane." Like I said before they should have a lane that compares more to this:
Pacific BLVD, Vancouver (http://maps.google.ca/maps?hl=en&q=vancouver&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Vancouver,+Greater+Vancouver+Regional+District,+British+Columbia&ll=49.273272,-123.12291&spn=0.003563,0.009624&t=h&z=17&layer=c&cbll=49.273569,-123.123436&panoid=a9lTTtYyy-sVfhIFcbYTsA&cbp=12,75.46,,0,5)

[DavidKuitunen]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v311/joshwhit/riverwalk5.jpg
I can't wait for this to be done. :slob:

[MasterG]

10th Ave would be perfect for a legitimate bike "lane." Like I said before they should have a lane that compares more to this:
Pacific BLVD, Vancouver (http://maps.google.ca/maps?hl=en&q=vancouver&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Vancouver,+Greater+Vancouver+Regional+District,+British+Columbia&ll=49.273272,-123.12291&spn=0.003563,0.009624&t=h&z=17&layer=c&cbll=49.273569,-123.123436&panoid=a9lTTtYyy-sVfhIFcbYTsA&cbp=12,75.46,,0,5)

That might have been a good idea, at least keeps all the concrete together, more space for pedestrians and greenery. Although alot of cyclists prefer the off-road approach.

That pacific blvd is the one with the random sidewalk in the middle. Whats the deal with that? im guessing some sort of place-holder for a future street car or something?

I cant imagine anyone walking on it. Why would you? :)

[MasterG]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v311/joshwhit/riverwalk5.jpg
I can't wait for this to be done. :slob:

Thats going to be some of the nicest waterfront in the city when its done. I cycled through there a few weeks ago. oh baby, i can't wait :yes:

[DavidKuitunen]

That might have been a good idea, at least keeps all the concrete together, more space for pedestrians and greenery. Although alot of cyclists prefer the off-road approach.

That pacific blvd is the one with the random sidewalk in the middle. Whats the deal with that? im guessing some sort of place-holder for a future street car or something?

I cant imagine anyone walking on it. Why would you? :)

Ya that sidewalk in the median makes no sense. I was wondering about that as well. For all those people who want to walk a block in the middle of a busy road?:rolleyes:

[Riise]

Calgary needs to understand what an actual bike lane is. Separated by a curb, or with differential paving. That is a bike lane. What is on 10th Avenue is just a sign.

In that case, Calgary's next mayor can form a class with London's mayor.

London's Mayor 'Can Cut Cycle Deaths And Get More On Road'

15 March 2010
Evening Standard
Miranda Bryant


Boris Johnson must do more to stop cyclists being killed to encourage greater numbers onto London's roads, according to Dutch experts.

Bike fatalities were cut by 54 per cent in the Netherlands between 1980 and 2001 as a result of road policies.

Roelof Wittink, who helped devise Amsterdam's cycle network, believes safety is the “biggest barrier” to Londoners using bikes because they are too scared.

Complete Article (http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard/article-23815223-boris-can-cut-cycle-deaths-and-get-more-on-the-road.do)

Although there is a big push to make London cycle-friendly and get more people cycling, due to a lack of proper infrastructure cycling in London is almost as dangerous, if not more so, than cycling on-street in Calgary. While there are cycle lanes, they are not grade separated and are very patchy. I would love to cycle into the city but I'm way too scared. By this summer both where I'm living now and where I'm moving to tomorrow will be connected to Central London via the CS7. The Cycle Superhighways (http://www.tfl.gov.uk/roadusers/cycling/11901.aspx) sound cool but I'm not overly convinced of their safety. As such, I highly recommend that Calgary goes with grade separated or barrier separated cycle lanes. It may be more expensive but if you're going to do it, do it right as lives will be at stake.

[fusili]

In that case, Calgary's next mayor can form a class with London's mayor.


Everyone can take a page out the the Dutch book on cycling infrastructure. My relatives are there and I spent a few weeks traveling around Amsterdam, Rotterdam and small towns like Zierikzee, Goes and Middleburg. The cycling infrastructure throughout the Netherlands is amazing. Almost all cycling paths are grade separated from traffic and in many places cyclists have their own signals for traffic. There are actually more kilometres of cycle paths in the Netherlands than roads (IIRC). Every little town centre is packed full of bicycles, and nearly everyone cycles almost everywhere, including omas and opas (grandmothers and grandfathers). It is so successful that there is a bicycle parkade at Centraal Station in Amsterdam. Here is a link to the google streetview (you have to move around the viewfinder a bit, but look across the canal and you will see it. Yes it is a multi-storey parkade for bicycles).

Link (http://maps.google.ca/maps?q=amsterdam&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Amsterdam,+North+Holland,+The+Netherlands&gl=ca&ei=2H2zS-qKJJWINrTb6eAD&ved=0CBIQ8gEwAA&ll=52.378949,4.896142&spn=0.001529,0.003884&t=h&z=18&layer=c&cbll=52.379058,4.895941&panoid=U8vN2Z5IMf5szBMK285V8Q&cbp=12,51,,0,2.65)

[DavidKuitunen]

Everyone can take a page out the the Dutch book on cycling infrastructure. My relatives are there and I spent a few weeks traveling around Amsterdam, Rotterdam and small towns like Zierikzee, Goes and Middleburg. The cycling infrastructure throughout the Netherlands is amazing. Almost all cycling paths are grade separated from traffic and in many places cyclists have their own signals for traffic. There are actually more kilometres of cycle paths in the Netherlands than roads (IIRC). Every little town centre is packed full of bicycles, and nearly everyone cycles almost everywhere, including omas and opas (grandmothers and grandfathers). It is so successful that there is a bicycle parkade at Centraal Station in Amsterdam. Here is a link to the google streetview (you have to move around the viewfinder a bit, but look across the canal and you will see it. Yes it is a multi-storey parkade for bicycles).

Link (http://maps.google.ca/maps?q=amsterdam&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Amsterdam,+North+Holland,+The+Netherlands&gl=ca&ei=2H2zS-qKJJWINrTb6eAD&ved=0CBIQ8gEwAA&ll=52.378949,4.896142&spn=0.001529,0.003884&t=h&z=18&layer=c&cbll=52.379058,4.895941&panoid=U8vN2Z5IMf5szBMK285V8Q&cbp=12,51,,0,2.65)

I'm planning a trip to Amsterdam as we speak. I would like to see Copenhagen, but Denmark is pretty pricey. The Danes are leading the way with cycling along with the Dutch. In Copenhagen they have blue lanes at major intersections and even their own lights for cyclist. They spend a significant amount on cycling infrastructure in Europe. It's still a drop in the bucket compared to what we spend on fancy ring roads and things. The density and tax systems in European municipalities really makes the difference though.

Intersection in Copenhagen (http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=copenhagen&sll=52.310158,4.55658&sspn=0.427359,1.231842&gl=ca&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=Copenhagen,+Denmark&ll=55.679544,12.563553&spn=0.012824,0.038495&t=h&z=15&layer=c&cbll=55.679463,12.563649&panoid=qsD-lnh5wzQo9EDB0_eSJg&cbp=12,222.65,,0,5)

[Rusty van Reddick]

fusilli, this is all fine in a city with no snow. And unbelievably high population density. You cannot compare the Netherlands, the absolute global platinum standard for cycling infrastructure, with Calgary or even Portland. And speaking of Portland, there are many miles of bike lanes in that city that ARE nothing but painted lines, precisely like what we have now on 10th Ave SW (and there ARE lanes there, not on all stretches, but there are LANES and not just a sign and a graphic of a bike on the asphalt) and even more clearly on 11 St SW.

To say that painted lines don't constitute "lanes" is silly. They do for cars.

[fusili]

fusilli, this is all fine in a city with no snow. And unbelievably high population density. You cannot compare the Netherlands, the absolute global platinum standard for cycling infrastructure, with Calgary or even Portland. And speaking of Portland, there are many miles of bike lanes in that city that ARE nothing but painted lines, precisely like what we have now on 10th Ave SW (and there ARE lanes there, not on all stretches, but there are LANES and not just a sign and a graphic of a bike on the asphalt) and even more clearly on 11 St SW.

To say that painted lines don't constitute "lanes" is silly. They do for cars.

For sure. I am not saying that we should have the same level of cycling infrastructure as the Netherlands, but we can take some lessons from them. We actually do have great cycling infrastructure, especially in terms of the Bow and Elbow river pathway systems, which I cycle around once a week. But our downtown really needs high quality infrastructure because the potential for conflict between cyclists and cars is so much higher due to the higher traffic volumes and the presence of so many one ways. A dedicated east-west bike lane with a curb separation on either 5th avenue or 6th avenue is a must. Calgary will never be the Netherlands in terms of cycling infrastructure, but our downtown should at least be slightly comparable.

And painted lines may constitute sufficient separation for cars, but it all depends on context. Vehicles are large, easy to see and collisions are rarely fatal or cause serious injury at low speeds, so a small collision due to the lower level of separation has little risk. Cyclists, on the other hand, are sometimes hard to see and cyclist-vehicle collisions have a much higher potential for serious injury or fatality, even at low speeds. A curb separating the two provides a needed reduction in potential collisions. That is not to say that every bicycle lane needs a curb separation, but on higher speed roads, and especially on one ways, they are essential.

It is the same reason why we have large medians on high speed highways (like Deerfoot). A head on collision on a 50km secondary road has a much lower potential for fatality than on the Deerfoot, and as such, painted lines are sufficient. Painted lines separating opposing traffic would be horrendous on a road like Deerfoot. It is all about the context. One way streets absolutely have to have a curb separating traffic. And 10th avenue needs not just painted lines, but a painted lane, as most drivers would just assume the line is a line separating vehicle traffic. Paint it red or something.

Trust me, even someone passing you close at 50km/hour or more when you are cycling is really scary, and can easily result in serious injury.

[DavidKuitunen]

fusilli, this is all fine in a city with no snow. And unbelievably high population density. You cannot compare the Netherlands, the absolute global platinum standard for cycling infrastructure, with Calgary or even Portland. And speaking of Portland, there are many miles of bike lanes in that city that ARE nothing but painted lines, precisely like what we have now on 10th Ave SW (and there ARE lanes there, not on all stretches, but there are LANES and not just a sign and a graphic of a bike on the asphalt) and even more clearly on 11 St SW.

To say that painted lines don't constitute "lanes" is silly. They do for cars.

11th St SW is a good start, although taxis and busses always park in the middle of the lane in front of Mewatta. I was headed north on 11th ST @ 10th Ave waiting at the red light. Some lady was turning East on 10th and she literally stopped three inches behind me and yelled out the window "move up on the sidewalk you idiot!" That was a while back. I don't think the lines where painted then, but still. Crazy.

[fusili]

. Some lady was turning East on 10th and she literally stopped three inches behind me and yelled out the window "move up on the sidewalk you idiot!"

Some people. She should have to retake her drivers test and learn that bicycles are vehicles and are supposed to ride in the street. Would she say the same thing to a motorcycle? I would have flipped her the bird.

[freeweed]

Some people. She should have to retake her drivers test and learn that bicycles are vehicles and are supposed to ride in the street. Would she say the same thing to a motorcycle? I would have flipped her the bird.

Yeah, unfortunately people forget what they learned in driver's ed, and fall back on intuition. Most people don't expect vehicles moving at 20km/h mixed with vehicles doing 2-3-4-5 times that. A motorcycle can easily keep up with traffic, but there's a reason little Johnny can't take his Power Wheels out on the Deerfoot.

Which is why bike lanes really need to be separate, unless we're talking very slow and/or low volume roads. We figured this out decades ago with pedestrians, hence we have sidewalks. Why we don't automatically build similar infrastructure for bicycles is beyond me.

[fusili]

Yeah, unfortunately people forget what they learned in driver's ed, and fall back on intuition. Most people don't expect vehicles moving at 20km/h mixed with vehicles doing 2-3-4-5 times that. A motorcycle can easily keep up with traffic, but there's a reason little Johnny can't take his Power Wheels out on the Deerfoot.

Which is why bike lanes really need to be separate, unless we're talking very slow and/or low volume roads. We figured this out decades ago with pedestrians, hence we have sidewalks. Why we don't automatically build similar infrastructure for bicycles is beyond me.

Agreed 100%. Bicycles are not the same as automobiles and they are not the same as pedestrians. In certain circumstances they can act as either (with cars driving at lower speeds, or with pedestrians when the bicycles are moving slower, or the paths are wide enough), but in many circumstances they act as neither. Which is why you see that most cyclists in Calgary look like die-hards, in full cyclist gear, almost ready to start the Tour de France. In the Netherlands on the other hand, most people are dressed in regular clothes and look like they are going grocery shopping. While someone like myself feels comfortable riding in regular traffic, most people are terrified by it. The reason why more people bike in cities like Amsterdam is that they feel safer doing so, not because they are intrinsically more cycling inclined.

[kw5150]

Agreed 100%. Bicycles are not the same as automobiles and they are not the same as pedestrians. In certain circumstances they can act as either (with cars driving at lower speeds, or with pedestrians when the bicycles are moving slower, or the paths are wide enough), but in many circumstances they act as neither. Which is why you see that most cyclists in Calgary look like die-hards, in full cyclist gear, almost ready to start the Tour de France. In the Netherlands on the other hand, most people are dressed in regular clothes and look like they are going grocery shopping. While someone like myself feels comfortable riding in regular traffic, most people are terrified by it. The reason why more people bike in cities like Amsterdam is that they feel safer doing so, not because they are intrinsically more cycling inclined.

I ride in regular clothes. My route is basically downhill so I dont even break a sweat!!

[DavidKuitunen]

I ride in regular clothes. My route is basically downhill so I dont even break a sweat!!

This chick has the same mindset. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16nine/1181263119/)

[fusili]

This chick has the same mindset. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/16nine/1181263119/)

That is exactly what I am talking about. But it seems most people in Calgary wear pretty intense clothes cycling to work (not all of course). Maybe it has more to do with the hills and the fact you do break a sweat.

[DavidKuitunen]

Today I got a speeding ticket at princess island park. I was going 19km/h in a area that is 10km/h. Kind of ridiculous IMO. It wasn't even busy.

[MarkL]

Seems like they always do a spring blitz around Prince's Island. Just go to court and tell them your speedometer was malfunctioning.

[Wooster]

I hate that bullshit.

[fusili]

Today I got a speeding ticket at princess island park. I was going 19km/h in a area that is 10km/h. Kind of ridiculous IMO. It wasn't even busy.

You were cycling?

[DavidKuitunen]

You were cycling?

Ya, it was right by the pedestrian/lrt bridge. I was riding right behind another person who was going the exact same speed and he didn't get a ticket. There we're about 6 cops standing around giving out tickets. Kind of a waste of time and money IMO

[Rusty van Reddick]

Where is this "princess island" you speak of?

I have been back on a bike after 10 years off- and am actually happy at how easy it's been getting around downtown and the beltline (any my neighbourhood minus the hills). The bike lanes on 10th Ave and 11 St are great for getting DT from my house, and traffic on non-major roads, like 15th Ave, has been easy to negotiate. I'm actually pretty amazed, and happy.

[fusili]

Where is this "princess island" you speak of?

I have been back on a bike after 10 years off- and am actually happy at how easy it's been getting around downtown and the beltline (any my neighbourhood minus the hills). The bike lanes on 10th Ave and 11 St are great for getting DT from my house, and traffic on non-major roads, like 15th Ave, has been easy to negotiate. I'm actually pretty amazed, and happy.

Biking through the Beltline, I found 13th, 14th and 15th avenues the best. No lights, and very, very light traffic. I find the DT a little hectic especially the one ways.

[DavidKuitunen]

Where is this "princess island" you speak of?

I have been back on a bike after 10 years off- and am actually happy at how easy it's been getting around downtown and the beltline (any my neighbourhood minus the hills). The bike lanes on 10th Ave and 11 St are great for getting DT from my house, and traffic on non-major roads, like 15th Ave, has been easy to negotiate. I'm actually pretty amazed, and happy.

prince's island* :duh oops

[Rusty van Reddick]

prince's island* :duh oops

LOL It's amazing how many even born-and-bred Calgarians call it that!

[hulkrogan]

One thing I would love is a dedicated 2 way bike land on 3rd street SW.

You can get south from the river pathways through Eau Claire and down 3rd no problem, but heading home north on 2nd kind of sucks. Because of all the dual turns you have to ride ride up the exact centre of the road to avoid having to lane change in traffic.

[Radley77]

One think I would love is a dedicated 2 way bike land on 3rd street SW.

You can get south from the river pathways through Eau Claire and down 3rd no problem, but heading home north on 2nd kind of sucks. Because of all the dual turns you have to ride ride up the exact centre of the road to avoid having to lane change in traffic.

Yeah, I agree that there should be a dedicated north/south bike route somewhere in the city centre as currently none exists. Commuting along the river or 10 Ave, for mobility, is good but once you start heading into centre city it's pretty risky competing with traffic.

I figure it's only a matter of time before a cyclists is run over by a cement truck in a blind spot downtown.

One of the other routes I thought for a North\South route would be to make a pedestrian\cyclist bridge across the rail lines at 2nd st sw over the Gulf Square parking ramp which is already an existing bike route, and continue the north\south bike route into the city centre.

[You Need A Thneed]

The pedestrian Bridge between Tuscany and Scenic Acres (over Stoney Trail) is out for tender. It will look sort of similar to the new bridge going up at McKnight Westwinds station, for the people that have seen that. At least the steel design is very similar.

[Aegis]

Some people. She should have to retake her drivers test and learn that bicycles are vehicles and are supposed to ride in the street. Would she say the same thing to a motorcycle? I would have flipped her the bird.

I've been cut off by motorists who are making some dumbass driving moves that interfere with the bike lane on 11 st. More than once I've slammed my fist on their vehicle as I passed.

[outoftheice]

I don't know if this has been discussed before but I think it sounds like great news! I look forward to seeing the master plan later this month. What I find exciting is that it appears this will be more than slapping some pathways down next to the ring road. The end of the article refers to the fact the perimeter pathway will tie into Fish Creek and Nose Hill parks along with running through the wetlands in Calgary's east end. Let the fundraising begin!

Calgary plans 80-kilometre green beltway encircling city

By Richard Cuthbertson, Calgary Herald June 15, 2010

Myrna Dube, CEO of the Park Foundation of strolls along the new pathway east of 32nd Ave and 68th Street NE June 11. The foundation is preparing the master plan for a pathway system to ring the city.Photograph by: Ted Rhodes, Calgary HeraldCALGARY - It's an ambitious project that could be unique among North American cities and, when completed, will link parks and pathways around Calgary.

By the end of this month, the non-profit Parks Foundation Calgary should have in hand its master plan outlining an 80-kilometre perimeter pathway system that will encircle this city.

The finalized plan comes as construction has already begun on the east leg, with a section of pathway now finished and work on two other parts likely to begin this summer.

Currently, many community pathways in Calgary end without being connected much beyond their neighbourhoods, according to Myrna Dube, the CEO of the parks foundation.

This project will change all that.

"Now, we'll have something that will connect. You can get on in one spot, ride so far, walk so far, get off , go into a community and eventually go right around the city."

Completion of the perimeter pathway is years away. But last year, the foundation received a boost to jump-start the project with $2 million from the city and a little more than $1 million from the federal government.

Key to the project is land being provided by the province, as parts of the pathway system will wind along the utility corridor of the ring road.

As the master plan becomes finalized, a massive fundraising effort will begin.

Dube estimates it will take $50 million to complete the entire project.


Read more: http://www.calgaryherald.com/technology/Calgary+plans+kilometre+green+beltway+encircling+city/3155480/story.html#ixzz0qwX6UAjO

[DavidKuitunen]

Interesting Video (http://vimeo.com/11278473) about alternative transportation.

http://www.transalt.org/