Stephen Avenue's first renovation block ready for Stampede crowds
One complete block features new pavers, benches, and upgraded utilities beneath the street, at a cost of $36.2 million.
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The first block of Stephen Avenue's downtown revitalization is now substantially complete and ready for summer events and the Calgary Stampede. The City announced Monday, June 29, that the block is curb-free with new trees, benches, granite pavers, enhanced lighting, and power outlets.
Below ground, the project upgraded subsurface infrastructure, replacing some pipes more than 100 years old. Water, stormwater, power, and lighting utilities were all refreshed. Phase 1 was budgeted at $36.2 million.
The completion came after tense negotiations last year when business owners threatened legal action over the timing of construction. The City ultimately delayed work and chose a less-impacted block, brokering a compromise under then-mayor Jyoti Gondek. "Completing a project of this scale in the heart of downtown required close collaboration every step of the way," said Amy Stansky, the City's project manager. Andrew Doudican, director of urban strategy for the Calgary Downtown Association, called Stephen Avenue "one of the most important public spaces in the downtown." Future phases west of Centre Street still need funding, the City said.
