If you follow Canadian Cycling Magazine (first off, of course you do, cuz you’re here), this probably sounds familiar. Some new bike lanes planned in Calgary to ensure safety for cyclists are getting just a wee bit of pushback. But thankfully, there are those reminding everyone about why and how they are so crucial.
What’s planned
A planned overhaul of 26th Avenue S.W. in Calgary’s Killarney neighbourhood is drawing criticism from some local business owners. They say the removal of street parking could hurt shops and restaurants along the corridor, as reported by the Calgary Herald.
The city’s $15.2-million project will redesign the stretch between 37th Street and 14th Street S.W. Painted bike lanes with protected cycling infrastructure and multi-use pathways on both sides of the road. Because as we always say, paint ain’t infrastructure. Having some protection is vital when it comes to safer cycling.
Alberta government pulls an Ontario and goes after bike lanes
Construction is expected to begin this summer and continue for around two years.
To make room for the upgrades, Calgary plans to eliminate on-street parking along 17 blocks of the avenue. The project will also include new paving, upgraded intersections, curb extensions, wheelchair-accessible ramps, floating bus stops and a reduced speed limit of 40 km/h.
City officials underscored the importance of the new infrastructure.
“By replacing these with protected bike lanes and multi‑use pathways, the project increases physical separation between vehicles and more vulnerable road users, creating safer and more comfortable spaces to travel for all,” a spokesperson said.
Rose Crowley, owner of Knight Enterprises said businesses in the area already struggle with limited parking space. Her property includes tenants that rely on quick customer access.
“There will be no parking whatsoever for any of the businesses that are already here,” Crowley said.
She also questioned the city’s consultation process, arguing many property owners preferred an alternate design that would have kept parking on one side of the street while still improving cycling safety.
The importance of cycling infrastructure
Ward 8 Coun. Nathaniel Schmidt defended the project. He pointed to several safety concerns along the corridor, including a fatal collision involving a cyclist last summer.
“With a death that occurred in this area on those existing bike lanes last summer, safety is the primary thing on my…
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