Calgary's Sunalta Main Street Set for Green and Pedestrian-Friendly Makeover

After years of planning, major upgrades are on the horizon for 10th Avenue SW in Sunalta, Calgary's inner-city neighborhood. The city has chosen a preferred design that aims to create a greener, safer, and more pedestrian-friendly street, transforming it into a better area for residents, visitors, and local businesses.

The redesign will cover 10th Avenue SW between Bow Trail and 14th Street SW. It includes wider sidewalks, more trees and greenery, public art, and new spaces for gathering. Currently, the street has narrow sidewalks interrupted by driveways and utility poles, limiting shade during summer months. The project also plans for accessible crossings, seating, planting, and opportunities for patios and community events.

The redesign is part of Calgary’s Main Streets Program, which seeks to develop streetscapes that better support local businesses and bring people together. The design has been selected after two rounds of public engagement and a co-design process involving input from residents, business owners, community members, and City staff. However, construction funding has not yet been approved, and if allocated, work could begin as early as 2028.

As an accountant working with newcomers, I see this as a positive change for the city, especially for those who value green spaces and walkability. It means more inviting spaces for outdoor activities and potentially better connectivity to local businesses and parks. For digital nomads and expats, it could make Sunalta a more pleasant place to live and work, offering a better community environment.