The City of Calgary is planning to begin work this year on a new pedestrian overpass above Bow Trail to Westbrook Mall. At nearly 50 years old, the existing overpass between 33 and 37 Street SW is at the end of its lifespan, and the replacement structure considers accessibility that had been overlooked in the current design.

Street view of the design concept, image via City of Calgary

A fall 2017 project update indicated that the preferred design option had been approved by the Calgary Planning Commission, with the project team in the detailed design process. To improve accessibility, the new connection would employ a wider bridge deck and ramps with a more gentle slope.

Day view of the design concept, image via City of Calgary

The project is seen as a key investment in an area where pedestrian numbers are steadily increasing, a pattern largely attributed to the arrival of the Westbrook LRT Station.

Project design, image via City of Calgary

Both the Municipal Development Plan and the Westbrook Village Area Redevelopment Plan identify the area around Westbrook Mall as a Major Activity Centre ripe for redevelopment. The latter plan imagines "an urban village where it is possible to live, work, shop and play without needing to use a car."

Westbrook Village 'Central Park' as outlined in the Area Redevelopment Plan, image via City of Calgary

The current overpass, image retrieved from Google Street View

The City notes that the construction timeline could change based on the detailed design process and site conditions that may impact the delivery schedule.