Rocky View County council authorized staff to continue developing a regional pathway within the Highway 8 right-of-way, Oct. 25.
In addition, council unanimously agreed to submit a letter to Ray Danyluk, Alberta’s minister of transportation, requesting a multi-use regional pathway be permitted for walkers, cyclers and runners. The letter also asks that any land required be obtained during the Highway 8 twinning land acquisition process.
“Incorporating pathway design and Dawn Smith
Rocky View Publishing
Rocky View County council authorized staff to continue developing a regional pathway within the Highway 8 right-of-way, Oct. 25.
In addition, council unanimously agreed to submit a letter to Ray Danyluk, Alberta’s minister of transportation, requesting a multi-use regional pathway be permitted for walkers, cyclers and runners. The letter also asks that any land required be obtained during the Highway 8 twinning land acquisition process.
“Incorporating pathway design and construction into the highway upgrade process has the potential to reduce pathway costs,” said Reeve Rolly Ashdown. “This pathway supports the County’s Parks and Open Space Master Plan, as we look for optimum ways to expand and improve the connectivity of pathways, trails and open spaces in the County enhancing recreational opportunities for citizens and visitors.”
Highway 8, a two-lane provincial road that stretches from southwest Calgary’s 101 Street to Highway 22 in west Rocky View, has been identified by Alberta Transportation (AT) as needing an update.
To that end, the ministry has developed a three-stage plan to improve the roadway, also a popular cycling route.
Despite its popularity, the highway, with its narrow shoulders, is not the best option for recreational use, according to Councillor Rick Butler.
“Currently access to Bragg Creek is limited for cyclists as they are forced to use the shoulder of the highway which is often loud, dusty and dangerous,” said Butler. “A designated pathway for pedestrians and cyclists would increase their safety and enjoyment of the area.”
County staff has been in discussions with a number of stakeholders, including the City of Calgary, AT, the Elbow Valley Residents Club and a number of special interest groups, regarding a potential pathway within the Highway 8 corridor.
The project would connect with existing pathways in Calgary, including the future Calgary Greenway, west through the community of Elbow Valley and to the intersection of highways 8 and 22.
The plan is to link the pathway to Bragg Creek and eventually Kananaskis Country, tying into the TransCanada Trail System.
The project would be in line with the County’s 2005 and 2010 Community Needs Assessments, in which residents identified pathways and trails as the most desirable recreational amenity within Rocky View County.
A Highway 8 pathway has been identified in the County’s Parks and Open Space Master Plan. In addition, Alberta TrailNet is keen to see the project proceed.
AT needs 111 acres for the highway twinning and has indicated a five-metre wide pathway could be accommodated for the majority of the route.
An additional four acres would be required for the pathway alignment.
Combining the projects makes sense, said Councillor Margaret Bahcheli.
“This is a no-brainer and I think it is a wonderful opportunity,” she said. “We are looking at an opportunity to piggyback on a Provincial project at no cost to ourselves.”
AT has stated it hopes to have designs for the twinning project and land acquisition completed by the end of next year.
