City of Calgary has unveiled big plans for a Deerfoot Trail upgrade

Change is finally on the horizon for Calgary’s busiest roadway. The city unveiled plans today for an upgraded Deerfoot Trail, and honestly, we’re relieved.

A joint study by the city and provincial government has been underway since 2016 and included closely monitoring the flow of traffic and possible safety hazards in hopes to improve the jam-packed route.

Today, the city only presented a single improvement plan for five of the seven major areas along Deerfoot. Let’s take a quick glance at those lucky spots, shall we?

• Beddington Trail N.E.
• McKnight Boulevard N.E.
• 16 Avenue N.E.
• Peigan Trail S.E./Barlow Trail S.E./50 Avenue
  and Glenmore Trail S.E.

However, 17 Avenue S.E./Memorial Drive and Anderson Road/Bow Bottom Trail/Southland Drive S.E. require more complicated interchange options. The city had come up with three concepts for both, but are aiming to narrow it down to one by next winter.

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Unfortunately, with great change comes even greater construction zones. Calgarians get to look forward to yellow vests, pylons, and even slower-moving traffic. The changes to Deerfoot will involve moving or adding ramps, adding at least three new river crossings and completely moving a few intersections.

The UCP government has predicted the entire project will only cost nearly $210 million which they’ve outlined in Alberta’s most recent budget. The bad news is that this is only half of what was set aside for the same project by the previous NDP government, so we guess we’ll just have to see.

So what do we think, Calgary? Because the city actually wants your input. In addition to the four open houses that will be held in affected communities, there is also a public survey where Calgarians can sound off until November 25th. So tell em’ how you feel! Or don’t. Your call.

DEERFOOT TRAIL UPGRADE OPEN HOUSES

When: November 13
Where: Forest Heights Community Association

When: November 16
Where: Riverbend Community Association

When: November 18
Where: Huntington Hills Communtiy Association

When: November 23
Where: RT Alderman School