CALGARY- A busy downtown underpass that is often described as ‘shady’ or ‘creepy’ will soon be getting a makeover.
Over 7,000 people use the 1st Street at 9 Avenue S.W. underpass every day. On Wednesday, a city committee voted unanimously to move forward with a new design to make it brighter and more appealing for pedestrians.
“I work just down the street, and when I get off work at one or two in the morning, it can get a little creepy,” says Amanda Richards, who welcomes the changes.
Get daily National news
Built in 1908, the underpass is showing its age.
“The concrete needs work. If you walk under most of the underpasses, they are starting to crumble,” says councillor Druh Farrell. “It’s reinforcing and restoring the base of it, and then provide some lighting of course, change the skin of it so cladding it with some artwork that’s easily cleanable and more attractive.”
The project is expect to cost around $2 million, and $300,000 of that will be funded by local community associations. Private businesses have also pledged to pay for some of the cost, if council approves the project.
The plan goes before council next week.
With files from Doug Vaessen
Comments