A Calgary city councillor is calling for two major streets in the Beltline to be converted to two-way traffic.

Listen to his full interview on the Calgary Eyeopener:

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Evan Woolley, councillor for Ward 8, said making 11th and 12th Avenues two-way would improve safety in Beltline communities and would help local businesses. Woolley campaigned on the promise during last fall's municipal election,

"Most cities across North America are actually moving to two-way streets," Woolley told the Calgary Eyeopener on CBC radio.

He pointed to 10th Avenue, which currently accommodates two-way traffic and is home to many thriving stores as a successful example.

Currently, 11th Avenue is a one-way westbound street, while 12th Avenue is open to one-way traffic moving east.

But critics say the move would slow down commuters who use the two arteries to go into and out of the downtown core during rush hour.

Woolley said he has seen studies showing that reverting to two-way traffic doesn't have a huge impact on traffic flow.

"From the research I've seen from other cities, it has not limited traffic flow as much as people think it would," said Woolley.

He said the change will take some time and requires consultation, however, he said city transportation officials have reacted positively to the suggestion.

Wooley also said a new traffic study is needed for the area before any change can be made.