Supporting a Vibrant Downtown Through Transportation

Transportation plays a pivotal role in Calgary’s downtown landscape, impacting work commutes, cultural exchange and economic growth. From leisurely walks and invigorating bike rides along the city’s extensive pathways to having an efficient public transit system, transportation choices shape the connectedness, experiences and opportunities that downtown Calgary has to offer. The Calgary Chamber is dedicated to advocating for vibrancy and transportation enhancements, recognizing these factors are essential in facilitating commerce.

Downtown Vibrancy

Downtown vibrancy in Calgary encapsulates the energetic and thriving atmosphere that defines the heart of the city. It is a dynamic centre where diverse cultures, bustling businesses and vibrant events converge, creating excitement and vitality. Transportation plays a critical role in fostering connectedness within Calgary’s downtown. The city has a variety of transportation options including buses, trains and pathways that work to enable movement and connectivity between city quadrants and downtown. Transportation allows residents and visitors to explore different neighbourhoods, engage in cultural activities and connect with various communities. Feeling connected to Calgary’s downtown is crucial as it creates opportunities for economic exchange, a sense of belonging and community engagement. When people feel connected, they are more likely to participate in local events, support local businesses and contribute to the community. By supporting a diversity of transportation options across Calgary and the downtown core, the city can stimulate economic growth, attracting people, businesses and investments.

Additionally, when our downtown is thriving with arts, entertainment, sports and cultural events, it becomes an appealing destination for skilled professionals seeking new opportunities. By creating an attractive city, Calgary can effectively compete in the global talent market and retain local talent, fostering a robust and skilled workforce. Ultimately, by investing in the attractiveness and vibrancy of downtown Calgary, the business community can attract and retain the talent it desperately needs, fueling economic prosperity and securing a thriving future for the city.

Leveraging Transportation Options

Calgary offers a diverse range of transportation options that cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. Walking and cycling are popular choices, with Calgary boasting the largest pathway network in North America, comprising over 1,000 kilometres of pathways. Additionally, the city’s public transit system is anchored by an expanding C-Train, coupled with its bus network. However, as Calgary’s population is growing and its borders expanding, it is important to acknowledge the need for growth and innovation in order to maintain Calgary as a leader in transportation. Governments’ investment in the Green Line LRT is step forward. However, there are challenges and limitations around the availability and safety of transportation options, which must be accounted for.

One significant challenge is the availability and cost of parking. Calgary is the third most expensive city for parking in North America, with an average monthly cost of $366 for a parking stall. This scarcity of parking spots can create inconvenience and frustration for residents, workers and visitors who rely on private vehicles. Adequate transit infrastructure could be part of the solution but presently, multiple areas have limited coverage and frequency, making it difficult for individuals to rely solely on public transportation for their daily commute. Further, Calgary’s winter weather poses additional limitations: snow, ice and extreme cold temperatures can impact road conditions, making a commute more challenging, particularly for cyclists and pedestrians. Safety concerns are also prominent, as indicated by the Calgary Police Service’s 2022 third quarter data, which showed a rise of 5.5 per cent in violent crimes and 1.2 per cent in property crimes within the city over the past five years. A poll commissioned by Alberta Municipalities further reveals that 61 per cent of respondents believed crime in their area was increasing. Safety concerns can deter individuals from using certain modes of transportation or accessing specific areas, impacting mobility and transportation experience.

Transportation directly impacts a businesses’ success and growth. An efficient transportation system, including a well-connected public transit network, shared spaces and affordable parking options, enhances accessibility for employees and customers alike. It reduces commuting stress, attracts talent to the city and promotes a vibrant downtown, driving economic activity. By investing in transportation options, businesses can benefit from increased foot traffic, improved customer satisfaction and a stronger sense of community engagement. While Calgary’s transportation options are not perfect, several unique opportunities exist to better our systems.

Unique Opportunity

Amidst the challenges, Calgary has unique opportunities to enhance transportation options and further attract people to spend more time downtown. One such opportunity lies in the concept of shared spaces, which entails a program enabling merchants and community groups to utilize sidewalks, streets, as well as other adjacent public spaces like parks, parking lots and plazas for various neighborhood, commercial and cultural activities. Reducing red tape to allow for the repurposing of underutilized spaces for parking could provide alternative revenue while maximizing land use efficiency. Calgary can create vibrant and inviting environments that encourage social interaction, support local businesses, keep costs low and prioritize the wellbeing of pedestrians and cyclists all at once.

Another significant opportunity lies in the ongoing investment in the Green Line, Calgary’s major public transit expansion project. This initiative will enhance accessibility and connectivity across the city, enabling more efficient movement between quadrants and downtown. Additionally, the expansion of fare-free zones could make public transit more affordable and appealing, encouraging people to choose public transportation over driving.

Ride-sharing platforms present yet another opportunity. By embracing innovative ride-sharing services, Calgary can offer convenient transportation options for short and long trips alike. These services can complement existing public transit options and provide flexibility for individuals who prefer not to own a car or solely rely on public transportation. Designating more carpooling lanes and implementing programs that incentivize carpooling can also contribute to reducing traffic congestion and promoting a more sustainable transportation system. Platforms like Communauto, which offer shared vehicle services, provides flexible transportation solutions for residents and visitors alike, minimizing the need for private car ownership.

These unique opportunities in transportation options tie back to incentivizing people to spend more time downtown. By leveraging and expanding these options, Calgary can create a vibrant and accessible downtown experience. It allows individuals to easily navigate the city, enjoy a range of activities and amenities and connect with different communities. With key infrastructure investments like the Event Centre and Entertainment District, the expansion of transportation must also be recognized. Combined, investments in building and transportation infrastructure like Calgary’s Green Line, further amplifies the city’s potential, providing a platform for cultural enrichment, economic stimulation and community engagement all the while promoting accessibility and ease of transport for Calgarians.

Emphasizing shared spaces, carpooling, Communauto, the Green Line, affordable parking and ride-sharing not only support transportation challenges but also contribute to enhancing the overall appeal of downtown Calgary. These options provide convenience, affordability, sustainability and flexibility, making downtown a desirable destination for both residents and visitors, ultimately fostering a thriving and connected urban environment.

Path Ahead

The transportation landscape in Calgary plays a crucial role in the overall livability, economic vitality and attractiveness of the city. It is essential for individuals to have convenient and accessible transportation options to navigate their daily lives and connect with different areas of the city. By addressing transportation challenges such as the cost of parking, lack of transit infrastructure, winter weather limitations and safety concerns, Calgary can create a more seamless and efficient transportation experience for its residents and visitors.

Ultimately, transportation in Calgary is about fostering a thriving and inclusive city. By addressing challenges, embracing unique opportunities and creating a robust transportation ecosystem, Calgary can enhance its appeal, improve quality of life and build a sustainable future for residents and businesses alike.

The Calgary Chamber is committed to representing businesses of every size and sector across the city, advocating for your interests on critical matters.