Dreaming of a Walkable Calgary: What's Holding Us Back?

Calgary, are you over the traffic tango? With our metro area population projected to reach 1.688 million in 2025, up 1.38% from 2024, our car-dependent reality is increasingly unsustainable. Only one percent of Calgary households are car-free, a stark contrast when 66% of central neighbourhood residents here rely exclusively on their vehicles.

But change is on the horizon. The long-awaited Green Line LRT, Calgary's largest infrastructure investment at $6.25 billion, officially broke ground on June 26, 2025. Its first phase of construction in the southeast is expected to take six years, promising a future of faster, more reliable transit for Calgarians.

Beyond rails, the city is making strides for walkers. The 2016 "Step Forward" Pedestrian Strategy aims for 15% of all trips to be made by walking by 2025, improving intersections and filling missing sidewalk connections. These efforts aren't just about convenience; they're about creating healthier, more vibrant communities. Increased walkability leads to better physical activity, mental health, and neighborhood safety, while reducing our carbon footprint.

So, next time you're idling, consider it a reminder that Calgary is evolving. Let's keep pushing for a city that champions subways and sidewalks, making life better for everyone, not just our cars.