City of Calgary Plus 15 implementation study
The Plus 15 network is a unique part of Calgary’s downtown landscape. Since the construction of the first Plus 15 bridge in 1969, the Plus 15 network has grown to a system of elevated, weather-protected walkways and eighty-seven bridges that span over sixteen kilometers throughout downtown. The network connects to various destinations, increasing downtown accessibility for people of all ages and abilities.
The Plus 15 implementation study is centered on assessing the current strengths and challenges of Calgary’s elevated walkway network. Building on the previous 2019 network review, this study aims to better align the network with changes in Calgary’s downtown, including new development trends and shifts in how people are using the network. By examining usage, connectivity, and integration with other downtown spaces, the study will pinpoint opportunities to add new connections, address gaps in the network, and clarify how the network continues to grow and evolve to enhance accessibility and support Calgary’s evolving downtown.
The previous Plus 15 network review was conducted approximately seven years ago. This was prior to the COVID pandemic and there have been significant changes to the downtown landscape, including:
- Increased remote and hybrid work;
- Reduced pedestrian foot traffic;
- Increased office vacancy rates;
- Decreased property values; and,
- A shift towards a more mixed-use downtown with expanded residential, retail, cultural, and tourism spaces.
The purpose of this study is to investigate the impacts of these changes on the Plus 15 network and to make recommendations to guide future Plus 15 development.
Public Engagement
Community engagement is a central component to this study. The City is seeking input from:
- Plus 15 users, such as downtown residents, students, workers, visitors; and,
- Interested parties, such as Plus 15 businesses, building owners/managers, real estate groups, community and cultural groups, civic and economic groups, and downtown developers
To help shape the future of the Plus 15 network.
