CALGARY – The province and the city of Calgary announced an agreement Monday on how to move forward with developing a new plan for the oft-delayed ring road around the southwest section of the city.
The memorandum of understanding sets out each government’s role during the ring road planning study, according to a news release from the province.
Alberta transportation minister Luke Ouelette called the memorandum a significant step in the ring road process.
“The planning study will look at an effective solution to address the immediate traffic issues for Calgary residents and enhance connections to the provincial highway network.” Ouelette said.
This latest planning process will include a look at previous transportation studies and alignment options.
Oulette and other provincial officials have long held that a ring road should go around the city, pointing to a route along 37th Street SW and through the Weaselhead Environmental Area.
But the city is taking steps towards a tighter circle for the southwest portion of the ring by moving ahead with plans to build an interchange at 37th Street and Glenmore Trail. That project was on hold for years while the province and Tsuu T’ina negotiated the possibility of running the southwest ring road through First Nations land. That deal fell apart in the summer when band members voted against the proposal.
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