Eighth Street revitalization enters next phase with sidewalk work through September
Construction begins on widening sidewalks at 10th Avenue, part of a $30 million downtown corridor project funded by federal and city dollars.
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Construction on the next phase of Calgary's $30 million Eighth Street revitalization is underway, with crews widening sidewalks at the 10th Avenue intersection through September.
The work runs through August and September around the 10th Avenue S.W. intersection with Eighth Street. Sidewalks will be closed during construction, and curbside lanes between Fourth and 12th avenues will be permanently closed to support pedestrian access improvements. The city has set up navigation signage to help people reach businesses along the street.
The broader revitalization stretches approximately 1.5 kilometres from Second to 17th avenues and includes updates to the Ninth Avenue S.W. underpass. The project aims to make Eighth Street—one of the few downtown streets offering a direct north-south connection between the Beltline and downtown—more welcoming to foot traffic with protected walking and wheeling paths, new landscaping, and upgraded public spaces.
The $30 million price tag draws $20.5 million from the federal government through the Canada Community-Building Fund, with the remainder from the city's capital reserves. Michael Scalise, COO of Creative Restaurants (which operates Bonterra Trattoria on Eighth Street), called the infrastructure investment necessary despite short-term business disruption. "We need this infrastructure," Scalise said. "Construction is hard for everybody, and it is one of those ones that we all deal with every summer. I look at it as a positive thing."
Eight of Calgary's 21 approved downtown office tower conversions are happening along Eighth Street, adding residential density to the corridor. The city said it continues to prioritize maintaining access to businesses, residences, and properties throughout construction.
How will the city support businesses affected by the construction disruption?
When will the entire Eighth Street project be completed?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
How much is Calgary spending on the Eighth Street revitalization?
Calgary is investing $30 million in the Eighth Street revitalization, with $20.5 million from the federal Canada Community-Building Fund and the remainder from the city's capital reserves.
When will sidewalk work at 10th Avenue be completed?
Sidewalk widening at the 10th Avenue S.W. intersection with Eighth Street will be completed through September 2026.
How long is the revitalized Eighth Street corridor?
The Eighth Street revitalization stretches approximately 1.5 kilometres from Second to 17th avenues.
What permanent changes are being made to traffic on Eighth Street?
Curbside lanes between Fourth and 12th avenues will be permanently closed to support pedestrian access improvements.
