Trying to get across the tracks in the East Village can be frustrating, but not for long — ground broke Thursday on the 4th Street underpass.
The underpass is heavily focused on the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, with LED lighting and a separate bike lane, and will open in late 2012.
“We have worked hard to create a plane of safety and comfort for the pedestrians,” said Ald. Druh Farrell.
The link will be the first way to get from the East Village across the tracks without going around.
“This will be a valuable link — really appreciated by anyone coming from Stampede Park after a Flames game,” said Chris Ollenberger, a spokesperson for Calgary Municipal Land Corporation.
The underpass is part of the revitalization of the East Village undertaken by CMLC, and will eventually connect residents in new condominiums to the southern half of downtown.
“The purpose of the 4th Street underpass is to connect people and place,” said Mayor Dave Bronconnier.
Plans were revamped and the underpass was moved so it would not require the demolition of the King Eddy Hotel.
