CALGARY – Construction is set to begin on improvements to the underpass between 8 Avenue and 10 Avenue S.W. The busy underpass connects the city’s downtown core to the Beltline and sees almost 9,000 pedestrians per day.
The repairs, which begin on Wednesday, are the first phase of improvements to the 8 Street S.W. corridor, including new sidewalks, LED lighting and a public art instillation.
“We are always excited about seeing improvements to the various underpasses in the centre city,” said Ward 8 Councillor Evan Woolley. “Underpass improvements are extremely worthwhile investments toward a safer, more inviting space for Calgarians to use.”
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The City of Calgary says crews will clean up the bridges and repaint them with reflective white paint to make the area brighter and safer for pedestrians.
Part of the Centre City Plan and the 8 Street S.W. Corridor Public Realm Master Plan, the project is the first phase of the 8 Street S.W. Corridor improvements.
“This project addresses the concerns of safety and cleanliness by not only doing the necessary maintenance but adding visual interest through design elements and public art,” said Ben Barrington, Centre City Implementation Program Manager. “We want users to see this area not only as a pedestrian connection but to also enjoy the interesting artistic and design features.”
This project will result in some underpass restrictions and closures for pedestrians and drivers. Starting Wednesday, July 15, the east side pedestrian walkway of the 8 Street S.W. underpass will be closed between 8 Avenue and 10 Avenue until the enhancements on the east side are completed.
During this time, pedestrians will need to use the west side pedestrian walkway. One lane of northbound vehicle traffic will also be closed during construction on the east side.
The City’s budget for the project is $8.8 million and will be partially completed by the end of 2015, with final completion in the spring of 2016.
For more details about the project, go to www.calgary.ca/8stunderpass.
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