Calgary's Major Roads: A Network in Need of Attention

Calgary's major road network serves as the backbone of the city's daily life, woven into the fabric of commutes, local businesses, and public satisfaction. However, this vital infrastructure is showing signs of strain, with 26 percent of the city's pavement rated as poor compared to the national average of 60 percent rated good. This degradation threatens to affect the quality of life for many Calgarians.

Impact on Calgarians

For residents, road conditions translate into longer commute times, increased vehicle wear, and growing dissatisfaction with city services. Projections indicate that by 2034, nearly two million trips will occur daily on roads rated poorly, potentially increasing resident frustration and economic pressure.

Policy and Solutions

The Calgary Transportation Plan aims to offer varied transport choices, yet road maintenance budgets average only $47.8 million annually. Experts say an additional $80 million is needed to align with national standards. The provincial government has pledged $2.1 billion for regional transport, including vital projects like improvements to Deerfoot Trail and the Calgary Ring Road, to aid economic corridors.

The dialogue around our roadways emphasizes the clash between fixing immediate issues and advancing a sustainable, multi-modal transportation system that supports walking, cycling, and buses. As Calgary navigates its infrastructural journey, strategic investments are essential to tackle existing challenges while building a robust, future-proof network.

This Article Contains information licensed under the Open Government Licence – City of Calgary.