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As the new International Terminal at YCC welcomes its first flight, another major infrastructure project officially opened for public use Monday. The Flanders Interchange above Crowchild Trail in southwest Calgary received its first taste of rush hour traffic as vehicles navigated a new configuration meant to improve access for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists and, transit users.
Under construction since September 2015, the project has been designed to improve traffic flow and safety for all road users while enhancing neighbourhood connections. Relatively uncommon in Canada — though increasingly the intersection of choice for urban planners — three dual roundabouts are incorporated into the design. For the uninitiated, the City of Calgary is pointing motorists towards a traffic circle demonstration video by the Alberta Motor Association that should help clear up any confusion.
The design was formulated following extensive feedback collected from community engagement exercises throughout 2013 and 2014. The plan was then approved by Calgary City Council in November 2014. Landscaping work will continue to fulfill the original vision until final completion in summer 2017.
The $35 million project was funded by The Canada Lands Company (CLC), a self-financing Crown corporation, though the City of Calgary is repaying $20 million of the cost. The Flanders Interchange enhances the existing connection to Currie Barracks and creates an entirely new one in anticipation of a major high-density scheme — also to be carried out by CLC — for the former military base. The approved 2007 master plan calls for a range of housing types, office space, retail, and green space.
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