A section of downtown Calgary is undergoing a MAJOR makeover | Daily Hive

The best part of downtown Calgary is being there. Whether you’re wandering the streets in search of an indie bookstore or you’re just going to work, a walkable city makes all the difference. The good news is, it’s about to get even more pedestrian-friendly.

The City of Calgary recently unveiled an ambitious plan to transform 8th Street SW downtown. With more and more office-to-residential conversions in the works, it’s high time to make this part of town feel like more of a neighbourhood.

City of Calgary/Supplied

The vision was created by combining feedback from Calgarians, along with technical analysis, best practices, and policy.

Regardless of whether you prefer to walk, bike, or drive, the transformation of 8th Street SW promises to provide a better experience for all. When complete, 8th Street between 2nd Avenue and 10th Avenue SW will be a modern community connector with upgrades to its public spaces and urban design. That means more room to walk, gather, and connect to nearby amenities.

“The 8th Street Revitalization project is a crucial piece of the ongoing transformation in the west end of downtown that will create connection in the heart of the city,” says Thom Mahler, director of downtown strategy. “We’re investing in a downtown that reflects the energy and diversity of our city.”

City of Calgary/Supplied

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Not only does this project aim to improve existing infrastructure, but it’s all part of the Greater Downtown Plan to enhance vibrancy in Calgary’s downtown.

Some key points of the 8th Street SW redesign include upgrades to aging infrastructure, protected walking and wheeling paths, improved road conditions, inviting gathering spaces, and enhanced landscaping.

The project has already broken ground, with work starting on yesterday, at the north end near the Bow River Pathway. Construction will run from 2nd Avenue to 10th Avenue SW, but don’t worry. Care is being taken not to block access to businesses in the area.

Naturally, a transformation on this scale comes with a hefty price tag. The makeover of 8th Street SW is expected to come in at $30 million, largely funded by a Canada Community-Building Fund investment of $20.5 million from the federal government.

So, how long will it take? The city says Calgarians can expect construction to continue until early 2027.

What are your thoughts about this new project? Let us know in the comments below.