June 2010 Approved Downtown Underpass Urban Design Guidelines · underpass design and improvements that would guide the public and private sectors. It is intended to achieve a high-quality

DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

calgary.ca/centrecity call 3-1-1

Linking Downtown and BeltlineJULY 2010

Land Use Planning & Policy, The City of Calgary

Downtown Underpass Urban Design Guidelines June 2010

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PUBLISHING INFORMATION

TITLE: DOWNTOWNUNDERPASSURBANDESIGNGUIDELINES

AUTHOR: LANDUSEPLANNING&POLICY

STATUS: ADOPTEDBYRESOLUTION ISCUNRESTRICTED

PRINTINGDATE: 2010JULY

ADDITIONALCOPIES: THECITYOFCALGARY RECORDS&INFORMATIONMANAGEMENT(RIM) DEVELOPMENT&BUILDINGAPPROVALS P.O.BOX2100,STN“M”,#8115 CALGARY,ALBERTA T2P2M5

PHONE: 311OROUTSIDEOFCALGARY403-268-2489FAX: 403-268-4615

2 JULY 2010 DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

TableofContents

Table of Contents

ExecutiveSummary............................................................................................................3

RoleandIntentoftheGuideline................................................................................4

PublicEngagement.............................................................................................................5

1.0 Introduction .............................................................................................................6

2.0 UnderpassAnalysis..................................................................................................10

2.1 Criteria.............................................................................................................10

2.2 EvaluationandRecommendationsofUnderpassElements...........11

2.3 AdditionalCriteria:PedestrianVolumesandCCPKeyPedestrianLinkages...................................................................................12

3.0 UrbanDesignPrinciples.......................................................................................15

4.0 UnderpassDesignGuidelines...........................................................................16

4.1 BridgeStructure(Bridges,Balustrades,Railings).......................18

4.2 RetainingWalls.............................................................................................23

4.3 ActiveEdges..................................................................................................26

4.4 Lighting.............................................................................................................31

4.5 Sidewalk/Multi-usePathways...............................................................35

4.6 Medians............................................................................................................41

4.7 Landscaping....................................................................................................43

4.8 UniversalDesign(Stairs,Elevators,andRamps).....................46

4.9 PedestrianSignage.....................................................................................48

4.10 UtilityInfrastructureIntegration.........................................................51

4.11 UnderpassArt.............................................................................................52

5.0 ImplementationRecommendations............................................................54

5.1 Implementation........................................................................................ 56

5.2 Priorities........................................................................................................ 57

AppendixA: Glossary............................................................................................... A2

AppendixB: UnderpassAnalysis........................................................................ A3

AppendixC: CaseStudy.......................................................................................A63

AppendixD: ProjectCredits............................................................................... A77

3JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

TableofContents ExecutiveSummary

The Downtown Underpass Urban Design Guidelines (the“Guideline”)isanon-statutorydocumentprovidingcomprehensiveurban design guidance for the development of new underpassesandany improvementstoexistingunderpasseswithintheCentreCityarea.TheGuidelineincludesurbandesignprinciplesanddesignsolutions which address common issues associated with Calgary’sdowntownunderpasses related to the followingcategories: Safety,Connectivity, Accessibility, Context,Vitality, Greenery and Beauty.The intentof theGuideline is to createbest-practice solutions inunderpass design and improvements that would guide the publicandprivate sectors. It is intended to achieve a high-quality publicrealm,pedestrianandcyclistlinkages,asdirectedbytheCentreCityPlan.TheunderpassesaregatewaystotheCentreCity’sdestinationsforwork,ar tsandculture,administrationandretail.Thesegatewayshavetobedesignedashighlyfunctionalandinvitingforthevariousneeds of pedestrians, cyclists, public transit and motorists. Thecurrentphysical stateof thedowntownunderpasses is inobviouscontradiction to their mobility and gateway functions within theCentreCity.

ThisGuidelinebrings together aunified vision for all underpasseswithcarefulconsiderationsforlocalcontext.Thiscontextisdescribedbyselectedcriteria,whichwillallowacomprehensibleandtraceableevaluationforallUnderpassElements:bridgestructure,retainingwalls,activeedges,lighting,sidewalk/multi-usepathways,medians,landscaping,universaldesign,pedestriansignage,utilityinfrastructureintegration,andunderpassart.

Based on general urban design principles which address: safety,connectivity, accessibility, context, vitality, greenery and beauty,and the Underpass Analysis, detailed guidelines for all significantunderpass elements have been developed. For every one of theunderpassdesignelements,theGuidelineprovidesanintroduction,the guideline text, the images, and conceptual drawings showingdesignopportunities

TheGuidelinedistinguishesbetweennewunderpassesandexistingunderpassesasdifferentaspectswhichhavetobeaddressed.

The new 4 Street SE underpass construction commenced inSummer2009.Apilotdesignforthefuture4StreetSE ispar tofthisGuideline.Theintentionofthepilotdesignistodemonstratesarangeofdesignopportunitiesforallevaluatedunderpasses.

The successful implementation of this Guideline requirescollaborationofaffectedbusinessunitswithintheCityofCalgary.


RoleandIntentoftheGuideline

TheDowntownUnderpassDesignGuideline(the“Guideline”)isanon-statutorydocumentprovidingcomprehensiveurbandesignguidanceforthefuturedevelopmentofanynewunderpassandfutureimprovementofexistingunderpasseswithintheCentreCityarea.TheGuidelineincludesurbandesignprinciplesanddesignsolutionswhichaddressurgentandpressingissuesrelatedtoCalgary’sdowntownunderpassesbasedonthefollowingprinciples:

Policy Section 6.1 in the Centre City Plan addresses the“MovementandAccessSystem”:“Establishnorth-southconnectionsandovercomeexisting barriers (e.g., the CPR tracks, the Bow River, and the ElbowRiver)byfacilitatingtheimplementationoftheproposedunderpasses,overpasses, pedestrianbridges andother integrateddesign initiatives.”In addition, theCentreCityPlanSection4.3.2proposes thatphysicalenhancements to existing and potentially new vehicular underpassesplay an important role in implementing the Canadian Pacific Railway(CPR)corridorvisionovertime.TheGuidelineaddressestherelationshipandpotentialdesigntreatmentsforsuchdesignelementsasbridgestructure,retainingwalls,activeedges,lighting, sidewalk/multi-use pathways, medians, landscaping, universaldesign,pedestriansignage,utilityinfrastructureintegration,andunderpassart.

Safety, connectivity, accessibility, context, vitality, greenery and beauty.

TheGuideline’sintentistosetthestageforacoordinatedactionandimplementationbyrelatedbusinessunitsandtheactivepartnershipofstakeholders.

The scope of work involves eight existing underpasses (7 Street SE,MacleodTrailSE,1StreetSE,1StreetSW,4StreetSW,5StreetSW,8StreetSW,14StreetSW),oneunderpassunderconstruction(4StreetSE),oneproposedunderpass(2StreetSW),andonepotentialunderpass(11StreetSW).Thestudyareaforeachunderpasscoversthesouth-north streets , and the lands immediately adjacent to the underpassbetween9Avenueand10Avenue.


PublicEngagement

ThefollowinginternalandexternalstakeholderswereinvolvedinthisprojecttoensuretheirvaluesareconsideredandreflectedintheGuideline:

Internal Stakeholder Circulation and Comments

LandUsePlanning&Policy/CentreCity

TransportationPlanning/CentreCity

TransportationPlanning/PedestrianandBicyclePolicy&Projects

TransportationPlanning/NetworkPlanning

TransportationPlanning/DevelopmentServices

TransportationPlanning/TransportationSolutions

CalgaryTransit

Roads/SubdivisionDevelopment

Roads/Streetlighting

Roads/Bridges&Structures

Roads/TrafficEngineering

Recreation/PublicArt

Parks/UrbanForestry

CentreCityImplementation

External Stakeholder Circulation and Comments

CalgaryMunicipalLandCorporation(CMLC)

MarshallTittemoreArchitects(MTA)

CalgaryDowntownAssociation

BeltlineCommunityAssociation

VictoriaCrossingBRZ

“4 Street SE Community Link”

TheurbandesignprinciplesincludedinthisGuidelinewerelargely

drawnfromthe“4StreetSECommunityLink”stakeholder

Sessionsheldduring2005-2006,whichinvolvedthefollowingparticipants:

AlanJacobs

McElhanneyConsulting

Scatliff+Miller+Murray

BucklandTaylor

AldermanDruhFarrell,Ward7

AldermanJohnMar,Ward8

AldermanMadeleineKing,Former(Ward8Alderman)

LandUsePlanningandPolicy,CityofCalgary

Transportation,CityofCalgary

CorporateProperties,CityofCalgary

Parks,CityofCalgary

Recreation/PublicArt,CityofCalgary

VictoriaCrossingBRZ


1.0Introduction

Centre City, Calgary’s Hub and the Importance and Function of Its Underpasses

ThefollowingmapillustratesthestrategicimportanceofunderpassesinrelationtomobilitywithinCalgary’sCentreCity.Approximately34,000peoplelivewithintheCentreCity,and160,000peopleareemployedhereandcommutedailytoandfromthisarea.89%ofCanada’soilandgascompaniesareheadquarteredintheCentreCity,aswellasover6,400businesses,over13artandculturespotsarecontainedhere.TheCentreCityistheeconomicengineofCalgaryandcontributeslargelytotheCity’srevenues.Theunderpassesaregatewaystothedestinationsforwork,artsandculture,administrationandretail.Thesegatewayshavetobedesignedashighlyfunctionalandinvitingforthevariousneedsofpedestrians,cyclists,publictransitandmotorists.

• ExistingUnderpasses: 7StreetSE,MacLeodTrail,1StreetSE,CentreStreet,1StreetSW,4StreetSW,5StreetSW,8StreetSW,14StreetSW• ProposedUnderpasses: 4StreetSE,2StreetSW• PotentialUnderpass: 11StreetSW

ExistingUnderpasses

ProposedUnderpasses

PotentialUnderpasses


1.0 Introduction

General Underpass IssuesThecurrentphysicalstateofdowntownunderpassesisincontradictionto their mobility and gateway functions within the Centre City. AcursoryglanceintotheunderpassesunveilsalistofissueswhichmakethisGuidelinenecessary:

• Visuallyunappealingbridgeswithrusting,dirty,darksteelandconcretestructures

• Narrowpedestrianright-of-wayswithlowceilingsandpoorlightinglevelsunderthebridge

• Light/darkcontrast(Blackframeimpact)whileapproachingthebridgeresultinginnegativesafetyperceptionsandcomfortlevels

• Sidewalksflankedbyhighconcretewallscoveredwithcracksandpeelingpaint

• Poordrainagecausedbyrainwateroverflowandsnowmeltingresultinginwaterpoolingoricyconditionsdependingonthetimeoftheyear

• Structuresusedassheltersandtoiletsforthehomelessandplacesforbirdstoroost

• Litteranddebriscollectedthroughoutresultinginanunkempt,unsafeappearance

• Missedopportunitiesforlowerlevelaccesstobuildings,possiblestorefronts,patiosandlandscaping

• Lackofwayfindingelements

• Nodefinedbicyclepathsand/ormissingstreetright-of-wayspaceforcyclists

• Pedestrianpathsatunderpassentrancesandstreetcrossingscluttered


1.0 Introduction

CPR Corridor Potential and Underpasses

ThefollowingimageillustratestheextentoftheCPRcorridorwithintheCentreCity.Thelargeamountofnewlybuiltorapprovedbuildingswithinthelast5years isan indicatoroftheattractionandeconomicpotentialofthecorridorandit’sadjacent lands.Everyunderpass isattachedtodevelopedordevelopablelands.Successfulunderpassdesignandimprovementsrelyonacoordinatedapproachtopublicimprovementworkingwithprivatedevelopments.TheGuidelineconsidersunderpassdesigntoincludetheadjacentdevelopments.

AccordingtotheCentreCityPlan,CanadianPacificRailway(CPR)continuestobeacentraltransportationcorridorinthelongtermbutwithfuturedevelopments,itcomplementsanddefinesadjoininguses.AsgatewaysfromandtoDowntownandmajorsouth-northconnectionsbetweenDowntownandBeltline,underpassesplayanimportantroleinestablishingbothhorizontalandverticallinkagessothattheCPRcorridorvisioncouldberealizedovertime.

CPRCORRIDORNEWLYBUILTORAPPROVEDBUILDINGS

NewlyBuiltorApprovedBuildingsby2008

9JULY 2010

1.0 Introduction

New 4 Street SE Underpass

Thedesignandengagementprocessforthe4StreetSEUnderpassstartedin 2006. Currently there are eight existing underpasses connecting thedowntown core with its southern neighbourhoods. In addition to theseexistingunderpasses,the4StreetSEunderpasswillprovideanewconnectionbetweentheStampedeParkandtheDowntownEastVillage,aswellastheplannedhigh-densitymixed-usedevelopment(“RailTown”),apotentialhighspeedrailstationforpassengerservicesandafutureSoutheastLRT/C-trainstation.TheStakeholderengagementprocessdevelopedthefollowingvisionforthe4StreetSEunderpass:

“Awelcoming, highquality, pedestrian-orientated,multi-modal continuousconnection between the high streets of two vibrant, dense, urbanneighborhoods”.

WithinthecontextoftheCentreCityPlan,itwasidentifiedthatthereisaneedtoprovideurbandesignguidelinesforallexistingandproposedunderpassesinordertocontributetothedevelopmentoftheCPRcorridorvision.Usingthe4StreetSEunderpass as a case study, thisGuidelinecreates aunifiedvisionforallunderpasseswithcarefulconsiderationsgiventolocalcontext.

UNDERPASS DESIGN GUIDELINES


2.1CRITERIA

2.0UnderpassAnalysis

Eachunderpasshasaspecificphysicalandplanningpolicycontext.Thiscontextisdescribedbyselectedcriteria,whichwillallowacomprehensiveandcomparableevaluation:

Criteria Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltFormDepictsthebuiltenvironmentandthenewlybuiltorapproveddevelopmentsincloseproximitytotheunderpass

Pedestrian

RealmDescribesthevisibleandtangibleelementsforpedestrians

Redevelopment

OpportunitiesDescribespotentialredevelopmentopportunitiessuchasparkinglots,emptysites,underutilizedsitesadjacenttotheunderpass

Linkages Describesexistingandpotentialconnectionsforpedestrians,cyclistsandtransit

RoadDesign Depictsthedimensionsoftheroadcrosssectiondesign

PolicyContext

CentreCityPlanBeltlineARP

Describeskeypolicydirectionsforpedestrianandcyclistmobility

Aglossary(seeAppendixA)providesdefinitionsforthevarioustermsandexpressionsusedinthisGuideline.


2.2EVALUATIONANDRECOMMENDATIONSOFUNDERPASSELEMENTS

2.0 Underpass Analysis

Design Elements Descriptions Evaluation Recommendations

BridgeStructure The listed underpass elementsareidentified“designelements”withinanunderpass.

Theelements represent typicalphysical structures/installationswhicheithercouldbe found inanyoftheevaluatedunderpassesorshouldbeconsideredaspartof a new underpass design inthefuture.

All elements are prone todeterioration and destructionandrequireconstantcare,repair,updateoralteration.

Theanalysis is value-basedandhas been undertaken duringspring 2009 through site visits.Value-basedcriteriaare:

• Surfacephysicalimpression

• Functionality

• Safety

• ExistingorNon-existing.

3 groups of conditions (poor/fair/good)providebasematerialsforfurtherrecommendations.

Thestructural conditionof thebridge has been evaluated byCityofCalgary,Roads(Structures&Bridges).

Adetailedphotodocumentationisalsopartofthework.

Basedon:

• thecontextanalysis,

• thesiteanalysis,and

• theevaluation,

Recommendat ions for eachs ing le des igne lementaremadeprov id ingacata logue for futureimprovements .

Balustrades

RetainingWalls

SidewalksStairsandRamps(ifany)

Medians

Railings

Pedestrians/BuildingsorParkingLotInterface

FunctionalLighting

ActiveEdges

AdvancedLighting

BikeFacilities

Landscaping

UniversalDesign

PedestrianSignage

UnderpassArt

SeeAppendix2fordetailedanalysisresults.



East Pathway2006 - 5422007 - 3022008 - 334

Palliser Square Parkade2006 - 02007 - 1282008 - 0

Gulf Canada Square Parkade2006 - 40552007 - 32262008 - 5364

Macleod Tr SE North of 10 Av2006 - 13152007 - 13872008 - 1541

9 Av SW West of 11 St2006 - 3852007 - 3212008 - 439

11 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 28172007 - 34452008 - 3253

8 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 89702007 - 102582008 - 8748

5 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 50712007 - 44172008 - 4622

4 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 56752007 - 58752008 - 6155

1 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 72242007 - 86842008 - 7082

1 St SE North of 10 Av2006 - 21242007 - 24702008 - 2471

9 Av SE West of 7 St2006 - 7242007 - 3322008 - 597

.0 260 520130

Meters

Legend

5,100

2006 Pedestrians

2007 Pedestrians

2008 Pedestrians

Pedestrian Volumes16 Hour Totals

Pedestrian Volumes 16 Hour Totals

2.3ADDITIONALCRITERIA:PEDESTRIANVOLUMESandCCPKEYPEDESTRIANLINKAGES

Thediagram shows thehighest (daily)pedestrian countsbetween2006and2008.Thehighlighted streets are the keypedestrian corridors asidentifiedbytheCentreCityPlan(May2007).

Low Volume

Medium Volume High VolumeHigh Volume High

Volume High Volume

2 S

tree

t S

W

4 S

tree

t S

W

5 S

tree

t S

W

6 S

tree

t S

W

7 S

tree

t S

W

8 S

tree

t S

W

9 S

tree

t S

W

10 S

tree

t S

W

11 S

tree

t S

W



East Pathway2006 - 5422007 - 3022008 - 334




9 Av SW West of 11 St2006 - 3852007 - 3212008 - 439

11 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 28172007 - 34452008 - 3253

8 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 89702007 - 102582008 - 8748

5 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 50712007 - 44172008 - 4622

4 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 56752007 - 58752008 - 6155

1 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 72242007 - 86842008 - 7082

1 St SE North of 10 Av2006 - 21242007 - 24702008 - 2471

9 Av SE West of 7 St2006 - 7242007 - 3322008 - 597

.0 260 520130

Meters

Legend

5,100

2006 Pedestrians

2007 Pedestrians

2008 Pedestrians


2.3ADDITIONALCRITERIA:PEDESTRIANVOLUMESandCCPPEDESTRIANLINKAGES

High Volume Low

Volume

MediumVolume

LowVolume

LowVolume

LowVolume

9 Avenue S

10 Avenue S

11 Avenue S

12 Avenue S

1 S

tree

t S

E

1 S

tree

t S

W

4 S

tree

t S

E

Mac

leo

d T

rail

Cen

tre

Str

eet

East Pathway2006 - 5422007 - 3022008 - 334




9 Av SW West of 11 St2006 - 3852007 - 3212008 - 439

11 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 28172007 - 34452008 - 3253

8 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 89702007 - 102582008 - 8748

5 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 50712007 - 44172008 - 4622

4 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 56752007 - 58752008 - 6155

1 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 72242007 - 86842008 - 7082

1 St SE North of 10 Av2006 - 21242007 - 24702008 - 2471

9 Av SE West of 7 St2006 - 7242007 - 3322008 - 597

.0 260 520130

Meters

Legend

5,100

2006 Pedestrians

2007 Pedestrians

2008 Pedestrians


East Pathway2006 - 5422007 - 3022008 - 334




9 Av SW West of 11 St2006 - 3852007 - 3212008 - 439

11 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 28172007 - 34452008 - 3253

8 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 89702007 - 102582008 - 8748

5 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 50712007 - 44172008 - 4622

4 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 56752007 - 58752008 - 6155

1 St SW North of 10 Av2006 - 72242007 - 86842008 - 7082

1 St SE North of 10 Av2006 - 21242007 - 24702008 - 2471

9 Av SE West of 7 St2006 - 7242007 - 3322008 - 597

.0 260 520130

Meters

Legend

5,100

2006 Pedestrians

2007 Pedestrians

2008 Pedestrians



2.3ADDITIONALCRITERIA:PEDESTRIANVOLUMESandCCPKEYPEDESTRIANLINKAGES


HighVolume-1StreetSW MediumVolume-1StreetSE LowVolume-MacleodTrailSE


3.0UrbanDesignPrinciples

Thedesignand improvementof thedowntownunderpassesrequireaguidingvision.The followingUrbanDesignPrinciplesprovideageneralframeworkforthisGuidelineandshouldbeappliedtothedesignandimprovementofallstructuralandfunctionalelementsoftheunderpassesasoutlinedinSection4.0:

Vitality

Strongly encourage active uses along underpass streets (small shops,restaurants, services, art galleries, fitness studios, etc.) for any newdevelopmentattheunderpasses.

Greenery

Maximizelandscapingopportunitiesatretainingwalls,medians,corners,parkinglots,andtransitionareasbetweenpublicandprivateproperties.

Explore possibilities to introduce natural light underneath the bridgestructure

Beauty

Incorporateartisticelementsintoretainingwalls,medians,sidewalksurfacesandactiveusebuildingfrontages.

Safety

Provideanopenandcleanappearancetotheunderpassstructure,accompaniedbyintegratedlightingfeatures(theuseofinvitingmaterialsandcolorschemesonretainingwalls,underpassceilingsandsidewalksurfaces).

Connectivity

Provide seamless connections for pedestrians and cyclists as well asmotoristsbetweenDowntownandtheBeltlineneighbourhoods.

Accessibility

Providebarrier-freesidewalkandpathsurfacesandcomfortableconnectionstoadjacentusesforusers.

Context

Relatethedesigntreatmentsoftheunderpassestothehistoricalcontext,localcharacterandexistingpolicydirections.

16 JULY 2010 DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES16

4.0UnderpassDesignGuidelines

General Policy for the following guidelines:

1. TheGuidelineappliestoallsouth-northunderpassstreets,andthepropertiesadjacent toeachunderpass streetbetween9Avenueand10Avenue.

2. AllimprovementsmustbeinaccordancewithCSAS6-06,CanadianHighway Bridge Design Code andThe City of Calgary DesignGuideline forBridgesandStructures.Thisapplies toall structuralelementslistedinthisGuideline.

3. Thestructuralintegrityofeachbridgewillbemaintained.Itistheintentiontoencourageownersatthetimeoftheredevelopmenttoopenretainingwallsalongtheirpropertyfornewusesinordertoachievethedocuments“activeedge”intention.

4. Clarificationandexaminationofthedetailedownershipofretainingwallsections,sidewalks,stairwells,setbackareas,andbalustradeswillbenecessaryforthefurtherimplementationofthisdocument.

5. The aesthetic upgrade (encasing of pipes, cables, pillars, crosssupports,supportwalls;oralternativelycolouringofpipes,cables,andstructuralelements) shouldbedealtwithonacasebycasebasis,dependingontheoveralldesignconceptandthemeofeachunderpass.The implementationwill includeengagementmeetingswithutilitystakeholdersandthedefinitionofsolutions.

6. All underpasses (with the exception of 5 St SW) may requiresetback clearance in accordance to the Pedestrian and BicycleNeedsPoliciesoftheCityofCalgary.Incasesofretrofitsinnovativedesignandoperationsolutionshavetobedevelopedtooptimizetheuseoftheunderpassright-of-ways.

7. Collaboration of Key Stakeholders will be crucial to successfulimplement of this Guideline. Those Stakeholders may includeTourism Calgary, Calgary Economic Development, CalgaryDowntownAssociation,theCityofCalgary,andlandowners.

General Guidelines

17JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES 17

DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES DRAFT REPORT MAY 2010

4.0 Underpass Design Guidelines

Detailed Guidelines

Detailed guidelines for all significant underpasselements have been developed based on theLocalContextAnalysis(seeAppendixB).

For every one of the design elements in thissection,theGuidelineprovides:

• ageneralintroductionaboutthepurposeofthedesignrequirements

• theguidelinetext

• theimages

• conceptualdrawingsillustratingdesignopportunities.

The Guideline distinguishes between newunderpasses and existing underpasses aspresentingdifferentchallengeswhichhavetobeaddressed.

Basic Elements1. Balustrade/BridgeStructure2. RetainingWalls3. BuildingInterface/ActiveEdge4. Lighting5. Sidewalk/Multi-UsePathways6. Median7. Landscaping8. UniversalDesign

Note:Thisillustrationuses4thStreetSWUnderpassasanexample.

9. PedestrianSignage10. UtilityInfrastructureIntegration11. UnderpassArt

88

2

7

4 49 2

21110

13

5 55

6

6

22


1. For new underpassbridges the clear spanshould be maximizedthrough the design ofpillars,supportbeamsandwalls. The superstructureshouldbevisually“floating”.

2. For new underpassesthe utility infrastructureshould not conflict withthe aesthetic of thebridgestructure.Allutilityinfrastructure shouldbe integrated into thebridge design so that thepedestrian realm is freefromanyobstruction(seedetailsinSection4.10).

3. Consider the use ofvertical drains to providea smooth surface forpedestrians and cyclistsunderneaththebridge.

4.1BRIDGESTRUCTURE


Imageshowsmaximizedclearspanforanewbridgewithintegratedutilitylines.

8StSW

X

4.1.1 Bridge Design


4. Existing structural elementssuch as pillars, beams,and supporting wallsof the bridges, whichhave fallen into disrepair,should undergo regularmaintainenance andenhancement throughpainting, repairing andfrequentcleaning.

5. Existing pipes andcables underneath thesuperstructureshouldbeeither encased or visiblyenhanced through brightcoloring.

6. The gateway characterof the underpass intodowntown shouldbecome a dominantdesign feature for thebridge.


4.1BRIDGESTRUCTURE


X

X

X

Imageshowsbridgeenhancementandawelcominggatewaydesign


The bridge balustrade is lessof a structural element thana decorative one. It gives theunderpassafinishedappearancefromvariousvantagepointsandvisually pulls both sides of theunderpasswithitsretainingwallstogether contributing to thegatewaycharacter.

1. Existingconcretebalustradeson bridges constructedprior to the 1950s shouldbe repaired. Existing steelrailings should be replaced,orvisuallyenhanced.

2. Balustrade material anddesign should match thebridgeandunderpassthemein coulour and material toprovideacohesivelook.

4.1BRIDGESTRUCTURE


4.1.2 Bridge Balustrade

XImageshowsconceptualbalustradeenhancementwithintegratedlightingelements.

14StSW

1StSW

X


3. Balustrades could beenhanced with Brise-Soleils(sun-shading techniques).Solar cell panels in Brise-Soleilscouldbeentertainedtoprovidepowerforbridgeillumination.

4. Third-par ty commercialadvertisingonthebalustradeshould not be permitted,in order to maintain clarityof the bridge structure andto enhance the underpassdesign. Community andculturalbrandingcouldbeentertained to a maximumcoverageof 50 per cent ofthebalustrade

4.1BRIDGESTRUCTURE


Imageshowsconceptualbalustradeenhancementwithcommunityandculturalbranding.

Sunshadingexample

X

8StSW


1. The material, colour and patternshould be complementary to theindividual underpass theme, orenhance the visual appearanceof the underpass as a gateway todowntown.

2. Provide railings along the trafficside of a sidewalk where gradedifferences between the sidewalkandthetrafficlanesexist.

3. The height of the railings and theseparation between partitionsshouldaddressanysafetyandcodeconcerns.

4. Thematerial of the railings shouldbe durable to protect bothpedestrian and cyclist (in the caseofanoff-streetmulti-usepathway).Protrusion at handlebar heightshouldbeavoided.

5. The railings should be regularlymaintained,includingyearlycleaningandrepainting.

22

4.1BRIDGESTRUCTURE


4.1.3 Railings

1StSW

Imageshowsconceptualrailingdesignforpedestrianandcyclistsafety.


1. Retainingwallsareprominentand distinctive underpasselements. Retaining wallscan be divided into threesections:The retaining wallsofSections1and2requirepermanent design solutions,theretainingwallsofSection3 require both temporaryand permanent designsolutions.(seerightimage)

2. Thereplacementofretainingwallsbyinnovativestructuresanduseswhere there is anopportunity to create an“active edge” (see Section4.3).

The following table shows theapplication of various designcases for the retaining wallsections.

1. The material, colour and patternshould be complementary to theindividual underpass theme, orenhance the visual appearanceof the underpass as a gateway todowntown.

2. Provide railings along the trafficside of a sidewalk where gradedifferences between the sidewalkandthetrafficlanesexist.

3. The height of the railings and theseparation between partitionsshouldaddressanysafetyandcodeconcerns.

4. Thematerial of the railings shouldbe durable to protect bothpedestrian and cyclist (in the caseofanoff-streetmulti-usepathway).Protrusion at handlebar heightshouldbeavoided.

5. The railings should be regularlymaintained,includingyearlycleaningandrepainting.

23


4.2RETAININGWALLS


Section1:Theretainingwallsalongthetrafficlanesunderneaththesidewalkpodium.

Section2:TheretainingwallsunderneaththeCPRailbridgestructure.

Section3:Theretainingwallsthatseparatetheunderpassalongthesidewalkpodiumfromtheadjacentproperties.

Imageshowsconceptualretainingwallsofanunderpass.

Section1

Section2

Section3

12

3


4.2RETAININGWALLS


Retaining Wall Section Temporary Solution Permanent Solution

Section 1 Theretainingwallsalongthetrafficlanesunderneaththepedestrianandbikepaths Notemporarysolution Concreteslabswithdurableandbright

coloredcoating

Section 2The retaining walls underneath theCPRailbridgestructure Notemporarysolution

Designfeaturesinclude:•Enhanceddesign(seeSections4.4

Lighting,4.7Landscaping,4.9PedestrianSignageand4.11UnderpassArt)

•A“theme”application(e.g.Railhistory,Stampede,GatewaytoDowntown)throughouttheunderpass

•Colourfulanddurablematerialssuchasceramictilesorglazedbrickswhichcanresistvandalism(graffiti),climateimpactandaging

Section 3Theretainingwallsthatseparatetheunderpassfromtheadjacentproperties.

Section3oftheretainingwallistemporaryuntilnewdevelopmentstakeplace.Newdevelopments,whichareborderingretainingwalls,arerequiredtotransformtemporaryretainingwallsintopermanentsolution.Individualconcreteslabscouldprovideatemporarysolution.

Designfeaturesinclude:

Activeedgesolutions(seeSection4.3).•Enhanceddesign(seeSections4.4

Lighting,4.7Landscaping,4.9PedestrianSignageand4.11UnderpassArt)


•Colourfulanddurablematerialssuchasceramictilesorglazedbrickswhichcanresistvandalism(graffiti),climateimpactandagingforalongtime

•Materialsforthecopingwhichgivetheretainingwallavisualfinish

New

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4.2RETAININGWALLS


Retaining Wall Section Temporary Solution Permanent Solution

Section 1The retaining walls along the trafficlanes underneath the pedestrian andbikepaths

NotapplicableConcreteslabswithdurableandbrightcoloredsurfacematerials

Section 2Theretainingwallsunderneaththebridgestructure

Notapplicable


•Enhanceddesign(seeSections4.4Lighting,4.7Landscaping,4.9PedestrianSignage,and4.11UnderpassArt)


•Applicationofcolorfulanddurablematerialssuchasceramictilesorglazedbrickswhichcanresistvandalism,climateimpactandagingforalongtime

Section 3Theretainingwallsthatseparatetheunderpassfromtheadjacentproperties.

Notapplicable


•Activeedgesolutions(seeSection4.3).

•Enhanceddesign(seeSections4.4Lighting,4.7Landscaping,4.9PedestrianSignage,and4.11UnderpassArt)


•Colorfulanddurablematerialssuchasceramictilesorglazedbrickswhichcanresistvandalism,climateimpactandagingforalongtime

•Materialsforthecopingwhichgivetheretainingwallavisualfinish

Exi

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“Active Edge” is characterized by continuous, pedestrian-oriented storefrontsalongbothsidesofanunderpassstreetwithwindowsanddoorsfacingdirectlytothesidewalk.Itstartsoneithersideofthebridgestructurethatsupportstherails.Asapedestrianaccessiblearea, itneedsadditionaldesigncomponents(buildingfacades, pedestrian signage, lighting, trees, street furniture, landscaping, outdoorpatios,art,etc.),whichcontributetothepedestrianfriendliness.

1. Building uses: Inordertocreate“activeedges”,newandexistingbuildingsshouldprovideandadapt topedestrian-orientedretailusesat thesidewalklevelalongtheunderpassstreet.

2. Building frontages: New buildings and renovations of existing buildingsshould provide a frontage interface along the underpass street directlyaccessiblefromthepublicsidewalk.Thebuildingfrontageinterfacemayincludethefollowingelements:

•Frequent building entrances every 15 metres along the street directlyaccessiblefromthesidewalklevelwithminorgradechanges

•Windowopeningswithlargewindowpanes

•Façadedesignandwindowilluminationgearedtowardspedestrians

•Colonnades,overhangs,patios,sittingareas,landscaping,publicart,stairsandramps

•Electricalorspotlightedadvertisingsignsandbladesignsattachedtostorefronts

•Cornersetbackandcornertreatmentofbuildingstoadapttogradechanges

• Patios,landscaping,kiosksanddecorativeelements

3. Setback: RegulatedsetbacksaccordingtotheLandUseBylaware2.134malongbothsidesofallunderpassstreets.1StreetSE,MacleodTrailSEand14StreetSWhavea5.182msetbackonbothsidesofthestreet.Theseregulatedsetbacksapplyonlytothenorthsideofthe9AvenueSWandsouthsideof10AvenueSWandomitstheCPRcorridorbetween9AvenueSWand10AvenueSW(theunderpassblock).TobeconsistentwiththeLandUseBylawand to allow flexibility in creating improved pedestrian interface with bikefacilities, treeand furnishingzonesetc., thisGuidelinerecommendssidewalklevelsetbackrequirementsof2.134mand5.182m,withintheCPRcorridorarea.

26

4.3ACTIVEEDGES


SetbackexampleofanewdevelopmentonCPRcorridor


Case 1: Improvement of existing situations (where structurally and functionally feasible)

1.Encouragetheadaptivereuseofexistingbuildings,byprovidingsmallretailusesaccessiblefromstreetcorners.

4.Openupdoorsandwindowsfacingthestreet,andprovidestairsandrampstoaddressthegradedifferences.

5. Discouragefencesalongprivatepropertylines.

6. Encouragestepped,landscapedretainingwallsorotherretainingwalltreatments.

7. Providerecessedplazaareas/patios.

8. Usewindowilluminationanddesignthatispedestrianscaled.

9. Providelandscapingalongbuildingsetbackareasandparkinglotedges.

10.Providecomfortableseatingopportunitiesonthelowerportionoftheretainingwalls.

11.Use lighting, murals, signs, and other approaches to enhancebuildingfaçadesfacingthestreets.


4.3ACTIVEEDGES


SituationatMacLeodTrail:Minorgradedifferencebetweensidewalkandprivateproperties-Potentialforadaptivereuse,openingupdoorsandwindows,patios,etc.

Imageshowsconceptualactiveedges


4.3ACTIVEEDGES


Case 2: New Development - build to property line

1. Toprovideanactiveedge,anynewdevelopmentshouldincludethebuildinguses, the frontages,and thesetbacksas recommended in this sectionof theguideline.

2. Incaseofbuildingtopropertyline,asetbackshouldberequiredatthesidewalklevelonlytowidenupthepedestrianrealm,whilealltheotherlevelscanbebuilttothepropertyline.

4STSW

Imageshowsconceptualsetbackdesign-buildtopropertyline

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4.3ACTIVEEDGES


Case 2: New Development - build to property line

1. Toprovideanactiveedge,anynewdevelopmentshouldincludethebuildinguses, the frontages,and thesetbacksas recommended in this sectionof theguideline.

2. Incaseofbuildingtopropertyline,asetbackshouldberequiredatthesidewalklevelonlytowidenupthepedestrianrealm,whilealltheotherlevelscanbebuilttothepropertyline.

Case 3: New Development - large setback from property line

1. Encourage larger building setback areas which function as publiclyaccessible private space. The setback areas could be designed asalinearplazaorparkalongthesidewalk,orasacourtyardorsunkenplaza.

2. Thesetbackareasshouldbesurroundedbyactiveuses.

3. Interior and exterior stairs, elevators, and ramps may be required to dealwith the grade differences between the sidewalk and the natural grades.Acombinationofslopedorsteppedlandscapingandretainingwallsofadjacentpropertiesmayalsobeconsidered.

Imageofasunkenplazadesignalongtheunderpassstreet

Imageshowsconceptualsetbackdesignandgradechanges-largesetback


4.3ACTIVEEDGES


Case 4: New Development - grade differences

Option A - 5.182m setback with exterior stairs

:5.182m required setbacks frompropertyline(PL).

:Maintain3mclearsidewalkzone:1.5mtreeandfurnishingzone:Additional3msetbacksforupperlevels•Requireactiveusesalongthesidewalks•Provisionofexteriorstairs,ramps,andpatios

to deal with grade differences betweensidewalksandactiveuses

•Require frequent entrances every 15malongthesidewalks

Option B - 2.134m setback with interior stairs

:2.134mrequiredsetbacksfromP.L.onlyfortheactiveusesatthesidewalklevel

:Maintain3mclearsidewalkzone:1.5mzoneforlandscapingandfurnishing:Nosetbackrequirementsforupperlevels•Require active uses at the sidewalk level

withnoexteriorgradechanges•Provision of interior stairs and ramps to

dealwithgradedifferences

OPTIONA OPTIONB

Parking

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B4

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Image 20:

Parking

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Parking

Storefronts

Storefronts

Storefronts


Thestrategiclightingofunderpassstructuresis a key element in achieving the desireddesign impact creating “gateways todowntown”. Incorporating strategic lightinginto the underpass creates an appearanceofanattractive,safeenvironment.Lightingisan integral element in the development ofanattractiveCentreCityandshouldincludethefollowingelements:

Lighting of traffic lanes

Lightingoftrafficlanesisessentialforcomfortand safety.Approaching the underpass, theusual“blackholewindow”effect shouldbeavoidedbyahighluminanceunderneaththebridgestructure:

1. Consider the application of lightingtechnology underneath the bridge thatprovideshighpavementluminancewhichmakesitpossibleforobjectstobeseen.

2. Mast lighting should be integrated intothe median.With mast location on themedian, the lighting design could visuallycontributetotheunderpassoveralldesignandtheme.


4.4LIGHTING


Case 4: New Development - grade differences

Option A - 5.182m setback with exterior stairs

:5.182m required setbacks frompropertyline(PL).

:Maintain3mclearsidewalkzone:1.5mtreeandfurnishingzone:Additional3msetbacksforupperlevels•Requireactiveusesalongthesidewalks•Provisionofexteriorstairs,ramps,andpatios

to deal with grade differences betweensidewalksandactiveuses

•Require frequent entrances every 15malongthesidewalks

Option B - 2.134m setback with interior stairs

:2.134mrequiredsetbacksfromP.L.onlyfortheactiveusesatthesidewalklevel

:Maintain3mclearsidewalkzone:1.5mzoneforlandscapingandfurnishing:Nosetbackrequirementsforupperlevels•Require active uses at the sidewalk level

withnoexteriorgradechanges•Provision of interior stairs and ramps to

dealwithgradedifferences

5STSW

Imageshowsconceptuallit-upunderpasstrafficlanes.

4.4.1 Functional Lighting

Parking

Parking

Storefronts


4.4LIGHTING

Lighting of pedestrian areas including stairwells, ramps and hand rails

Thesenseofcomfortandsafetyinanunderpassisofhighimportanceforpedestriansandisacrucial factor for providing an attractive andpedestrian-friendlyenvironment:

1. In addition to the illumination of theunderpass structure, lighting elementsforminga“lightpath”shouldbeembeddedinto the sidewalk surface, stairwells andramps. Embedded lighting elementsunderneath the bridge span to separatethe pedestrian areas from bike paths areencouraged.

2. In addition to high mast lighting whichprovidesluminanceforthetrafficlanesandsidewalks,pathwaylightingisencouragedtoprovide additional lighting atmosphere forpedestriansandcyclists.

Imageshowsconceptuallit-uppedestrianareaunderneathrailbridgestructure.



4.4LIGHTING

Lighting of bridge structures

Avoidanceofdarksurfacesandunlitcornersis essential for creating an inviting ambianceespecially during nighttime and during poorweatherconditions.

Typically the underside of bridge structuresandthepillarsprovidepoorvisibilityanddarkzones.Lightingelementsshouldbepositionedon theundersideof thebridge toprovideabright passageway without leaving dark orshadedareas.

1. Distinguish lighting elements to provide acomprehensive illumination in addition tothe functional lighting (see Section 4.4.1)shouldbeincorporatedintothebalustradeandtheretainingwallsalongthesidewalk.

Imageshowsconceptuallightingunderneatharailbridgestructure,andshowsilluminationofretainingwallsalongsidewalkandbalustrade



4.4LIGHTING


Lighting of foliage / Seasonal lighting

1. Trees, bushes andplanterboxes appearblackafter dark. Clear visibility is essential withintheunderpass.Trees,bushesorplanterboxeswithintheunderpassright-of-wayorwithintheset-backzonealong the retainingwallsof theunderpassshouldbeilluminated.

2. Thegatewayfeatureoftheunderpassesmaybeenhanced through the installation of seasonallighting(e.g.,ChristmasandStampede).

Lighting of facades and active edges

1. The design of an “active edge” is successful,if building design and public realm designcomplement one another (see Section 4.3).Building façades along the underpass “activeedge” should be illuminated to provide aninvitingatmosphereatnightandafterdark,andtocomplementthestreetillumination.

2. Opportunitiesshouldbeexploredtointroducenatural lighting to the underpass. This mayinclude the integration of the followingelementswhere structurally feasible:openings,prisms,mirrors,translucentmaterials.



4.5SIDEWALK/MULTI-USEPATHWAY


OneoftheobjectivesoftheCentreCityPlanis tomake theCentreCity awalkableplacethatissafe,secure,accessible,legible,interestingandenjoyableforpedestriansandcyclists.

Thedesignofthepedestrianrealm(includingedge zone, furnishings zone, throughwayzone,frontagezoneasillustratedattheright)at underpasses plays a key role in fulfillingthe concept of “pedestrian first”. Section4.5 focuses on the throughway zone of thepedestrianrealm.

Section4.5illustratesoptionsforbicycleaccessat underpass streets,which includeoff-streetmulti-use pathways, on-street shared travellanes,andon-streetbikelanes.

4.5.1 Pedestrian First

FrontageZone

public realm private realmwith public access

Prop

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ThroughwayZone

EdgeZone

FurnishingsZone

AdaptedfromtheCentre City Plan,2007

UnderpassStreetPedestrianZones


1. New development alongthe underpass street shouldprovide a 3m sidewalk width(the “throughway zone”) withminimum obstructions. Asidewalkwidthlessthan2.4misprohibited.With limited space,an expanded sidewalk areacan be achieved through theuse of building setback at thesidewalk level comprising partof the throughway zone (referto Section 4.3 Active Edgesfor recommended setbackrequirements). The expandedarea should remain free ofphysicalobstructions.

2. The width of an Off-StreetMulti-use Pathway should be4.5-5.0m comprised of a 3m(sidewalk) and 1.5-2m (cycletrack).



4.5.2 Sidewalk and Cycle-Path (Off-Street Multi-Use Pathway), and On-Street Bike Lane Dimensions

8STSWSidewalk

4STSWSidewalk

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Cyc

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3. Underpasseswithhighbicyclevolumesshouldbeprovidedwithadditionalcyclefacilities:

•Thewidthofanon-streetsharedtravellaneshouldbe4.0-4.5m

•Thewidthofanon-streetbikelaneshouldbe1.5-2m

4. Allstairsshouldbeprovidedwithabikechannel.




5STSWSharedTravelLane

4STSWInappropriateSidewalkUse

Bike

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SharedTravelLane

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Thetypicalsidewalksattheunderpassesvaryinelevationsandwidths from the 9 and 10Avenue intersections down to thesidewalklevelsunderthebridges.

1. In case of new construction, the elevation of the streetshouldbecoordinatedwiththeelevationofthesidewalkandsurroundingbuildings.

2. Provide smooth and moderate grades and cross slopes toensurecomfortablewalkingandseamlesstransitionbetweendifferent grades (e.g. street corners, sidewalks/multi-usepathways,entrancestoadjacentbuildings)accordingtocode.

3. Where possible, a minimum 1.5m furnishing zone (alsofunctioning as landscaping zone andutility corridor) shouldbeprovidedbetweentrafficlaneandthethroughwayzone.

4. New developments are encouraged to provide rest areas(outdoorpatios,streetfurniture,trees,flowerbeds,planters,etc.)withinthebuildingfrontagezoneasanextensionofthesidewalk/multi-usepathway.

5. Buildingentrancesfacingtheunderpassstreetshouldprovidestairs and ramps.The entire sidewalk or a portion of thesidewalkadjacenttothebuildingcanberampedtoprovidewheelchair access.Where the sidewalk is notwideenoughto accommodate both stairs and ramps at the entrances,an alternative corner entrancewith at-grade access to thebuildinghallwayshouldbeprovided.

6. For high pedestrian volume underpasses, opportunities forlightingandpublicartembeddedinthesidewalkshouldbeexploredtoenhancethestreetscapecharacter.


Imageshowsgradetransitionsincludingoutdoorpatios,rampsandlandscapingforaccommodatinghighpedestrianvolume.

4.5.3 Pedestrian Realm Design and Avoidance of Physical Obstructions



7. The pedestrian routes should be free ofany physical obstruction (e.g., signal poles,lightingbases,garbagecans,parkingmetres).Ifthereisnooptionalspaceforthephysicalelements, the sidewalk width should beincreased to ensure usable minimumpedestrianspaceof2.4minbothwidthandheight.

8. Streetcornersshouldbeclearofanyphysicalobstruction as well. Any adjacent privatedevelopment is encouraged to provide arecessedcornerplazaareacombinedwiththebuildingentrance.

9. Otherphysicalobstructionsattachedtothebridgestructureandretainingwalls(suchaslightingelements,utilitypipes,signage,etc.)shouldbeavoidedduetotheirintrusiontothesidewalkspace.

10. Any uneven sidewalk surface should beavoidedtopreventhazardsforpedestriansandcyclists.

11. Improved drainage design (instead ofhorizontal drainage with catch basinslocatedinthemiddleofasidewalk)shouldbeconsideredinordertoprovideasmoothanddrysidewalksurface.


Concretelightingbaseatunderpassstreetcorner

Trippinghazardatunderpassstreetcorners

Utilitypipesoverastairwellon8STSW

Cornersampledesignofpedestriantransitionbetweendifferentgrades:

• At-gradebuildingentranceatstreetcorner• Buildingentrancefacingtotheunderpassstreetcombinedwithgentleslopedsidewalk,stairs,

patios,colonnades,andlandscaping

X

X

X



1. The sidewalk/multi-use pathway materialsgenerallyconsistofconcreteorasphalt.

2. All sidewalk/multi-use pathway materialsshouldbehard surfaced,durableand slip-resistantconsideringthewinterconditionsinCalgary.

3. For underpasses with a high pedestrianvolume (see Section 2.3) should exploretheuseofcolouredasphalt,colouredandstamped concrete, and other decorativematerials(tile,stoneandbrick).Thepaversshould be large and smooth enough toavoid uncomfortable vibration for cyclistsandpeopleusingwheeledconveyances.

4. The combination of concrete/asphalt anddecorative materials are recommended(e.g., concrete sidewalks with brick/stonetrim)forsidewalk/multi-usepathway.

5. In thecaseofamulti-usepathwaydesign,coloured concrete/stone/brick trim isrecommendedtoprovideavisibletransitionedge. Level changes should be avoidedbetween the sidewalkand thecycle track.Small lighting elements embedded in thetrim zone can be considered to ensurevisibility during evenings for cyclists andpedestriansincludingthevisuallychallenged.


4.0 Underpass Design Guidelines4.5.3 Pedestrian and Cyclist Realm Materials

Combinationofdifferentmaterials



4.6MEDIANS


All downtown underpasses should beprovided with attractive street medians.Pending on the available median width, avariety of median design elements shouldbeappliedsothatthemedianbecomespartof the image-building for theunderpassesasgatewaysintodowntown:

1.BasedontheCityofCalgaryTransportationroaddesignspecificationsandParksSustainableDevelopmentGuidelinesforTrees,ShrubsandGroundCovers2009,theunderpassmedianscouldaccommodateplanterareasforshrubsandgrass,whichwouldsurvivetheharshmedianconditions.(Note:Thedowntownunderpassmedianswidthwillnotallowsustainabletreeplanting).

2.Duringthevegetationperiod,seasonalflowerplantingshouldbepartoftheyearlyunderpassmaintenance.

3.Ifplantingwithinthemedianisnotpossibleorfeasible,themedianshouldincorporaterockgardendesignorrockformations.

5STSWMedian

4STSWMedian

Medianwithseasonalflowerplanting


4.0 Underpass Design Guidelines4.6MEDIANS

4. InconjunctionwithUnderpassArt(seeSection4.11)themediandesignelementscouldsupportartthemes,specificpromotionalactivitiesofthedowntownbusinesscommunity,andwayfindingsignage.

5. Mediansshouldaccommodatestreetlightingposts,whichprovidetrafficlanelighting.Lightingpostcombinedwithbannerholders(seeSection4.4.)couldcontributetotheoverallappearanceoftheunderpass.

Medianwithflowerpotsandartfeature

Medianwithlightpostsandbanners


The Centre City Plan calls for urban ecology as part of aresponsible approach to city building.The Plan suggestsevery new and renovated building is an opportunity tomeet this objective. There is currently a deficiency ofgreenspaceavailable tomeet theneedsof residentsandofficeworkers livingandworking intheCentreCityarea.Trees,shrubs,flowerbeds,andevengrassarepartofthestreetscape design that increases the level of pedestriancomfort.Currently the following issues are identified thatneedattentionwhileanewdevelopmentorimprovementstoanexistingdevelopmentisproposedalongtheunderpassstreets:•Thereisalackoflandscapingalongthestreets,surface

parkinglots,atthemedians,corners,andretainingwalls.•Theinterfaces(oftendefinedbylandscaping)between

pedestrianrealmandadjacentdevelopmentsarepoorlydesigned.

•Theadjacentvacantlandsorparkinglotsdonotprovideavarietyofecologicaldesigntreatmentssuchaswell-maintainedlandscapedstreetedges,permeablesurfacestomanagestormwateron-site,bio-retentionareasforsnowstorage.

The following landscaping interventions should beincorporated when an improvement of an existingunderpass/developmentoranewunderpass/developmentisbeingconsidered:1. Retainandprotectexistingtrees,vegetationandnatural

slopes.2. Integrate existing landscaping features into the overall

publicrealmandlandscapingdesign.

4.0 Underpass Design Guidelines4.7LANDSCAPING

4. InconjunctionwithUnderpassArt(seeSection4.11)themediandesignelementscouldsupportartthemes,specificpromotionalactivitiesofthedowntownbusinesscommunity,andwayfindingsignage.

5. Mediansshouldaccommodatestreetlightingposts,whichprovidetrafficlanelighting.Lightingpostcombinedwithbannerholders(seeSection4.4.)couldcontributetotheoverallappearanceoftheunderpass.

Existingstreetinterface

Existingparkbordering1StreetSE-opportunitiesforbetterpedestrianinterfacelandscapingtreatmenton8StreetSW


4.7LANDSCAPING


3. Maximize landscapingopportunitiesatretainingwalls, medians, corners,parking lots, buildingsetback areas, and areasbetween sidewalksand traffic lanes wherepossible.

4. Considerprovidingflowerbeds/planters to beautifythestreetswhere limitedspaceisavailablefortrees.

5. Where landscapingmight obstruct driverandpedestrianviews,uselower shrubs and high-branchingtrees.

6. Provide surface forcomfortable seating attheedgeof theplanters/flowersbeds.

7. Where retaining wallscannot be avoided,provide lower terraces,use durable, attractivematerials,andincorporateintensivesoftlandscaping.

Imageoflandscapingintegrationintounderpassstreets.

Imagesfromthevicinityofunderpasses

Landscapedretainingwalls



4.7LANDSCAPING


8. GreenSurfaceParkingLots

• Providelandscapededgesalongtheunderpassstreetstosoftenandscreenthesurfaceparkinglots,insteadofusingfences.

• Wherepossible,usepermeablepavers(e.g.,openjointpavers,turfgrid,porousasphalt,perviousconcrete)insteadofstandardconcretepavingatparkinglotsandsomeotherlow-trafficflowareas.

• Ensurethematerialsselectedaredurableenoughtowithstandtheanticipatedtrafficloadingstressesandpotentialmaintenanceimpacts.

• Thelandscapingedgesoftheparkinglotsshouldbewell-maintained.

Permeablepavers-turfgrid Permeablepaving-porousasphalt

Landscapededgealongparkinglot Permeablepaversatparkinglot


4.8UNIVERSALDESIGN


Stairs, ramps, pavements, and railingsencompassed into the underpassstructure should provide a cohesivesolution and a well-designedenvironment for people of all abilities.DesignsolutionsshouldalsorespondtotheclimatevariationsinCalgary.Designelements (All Designs refer toAlbertaBuildingCode2006andCityofCalgaryAccessDesignStandards—Draft2009)shouldinclude:

1. Tactilesurfacetileswhichformagridthroughout the underpass structureand help to direct people safelythrough the underpass and acrossadjacentroads

2. Concreteslateswithhigherroughnessto provide walking safety in variousweatherconditions

3. Coloredandspecialreinforcedstep-edges on stairs to provide guidanceandslipresistance

4. Visual separation of sidewalk andbikewayswithcoloredtileorstone

1STSW

4STSW

1STSW

Imageofatactilesysteminunderpassesthatatthesametimeseparatespedestriansandbikers.

X

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4.8UNIVERSALDESIGN


Stairs, ramps, pavements, and railingsencompassed into the underpassstructure should provide a cohesivesolution and a well-designedenvironment for people of all abilities.DesignsolutionsshouldalsorespondtotheclimatevariationsinCalgary.Designelements (All Designs refer toAlbertaBuildingCode2006andCityofCalgaryAccessDesignStandards—Draft2009)shouldinclude:

1. Tactilesurfacetileswhichformagridthroughout the underpass structureand help to direct people safelythrough the underpass and acrossadjacentroads

2. Concreteslateswithhigherroughnessto provide walking safety in variousweatherconditions

3. Coloredandspecialreinforcedstep-edges on stairs to provide guidanceandslipresistance

4. Visual separation of sidewalk andbikewayswithcoloredtileorstone

5. Seamlesstreatmentofcornersituationsandrampstoallowwheelchairandbarrier-freeusagebycurbrampsatintersectionsandcrosswalks

6. Seamlessaccessandaneasytransitionintothebuildingsalongunderpassstreets

7. Handrailsalongsidewalks,rampsandstairswhichareeasytograspandprovideafirmandcomfortablegrip

8. Auditorybrailleatunderpassesandkeyintersections,orGPSBrailleatsidewalksandadjacentbuildings(i.e.,“talkingsidewalk”,“talkingbuildings”)toguidethevisuallychallengedtotransitstopsandsurroundingdestinations

Examples of barrier-free curb solutions including tactilesystems.

Imageofanauditorytactilesystem.


TheCentreCityPlan identifiesallunderpassesasgateways from and to Downtown.As the majorsouth-northlinkagesbetweentheDowntownandBeltlineneighbourhoods,underpassescanbecomespots where visitors, workers, and residents findinformationandinterpretivefeaturesthattheycanusetoexploreanddiscover.Goodsignagecanplayanimportantroleinsupportingthepublicrealmandcontributingtoadistinctivelocalidentity.Theintenthasbeenconsistentinrecentpolicyworkrelatedtothesubject,includingtheCalgaryDowntownRetailDistrict Strategy (2009) and theAnimated PublicArtReport(2008).ThisGuidelinefocusesprimarilyonthepedestrianrealm.Theintentisto:

•Enhancethegatewayfeaturesofallunderpassesthroughproperpedestriansignage

•Improvethewayfindingandlegibility

•Enrichthepedestrianexperience

Pedestrian Signage 1. Providewayfindingsignagetodirectandorient

pedestrians and cyclists to surrounding keydestinations,aswellasthepublictransitnetworkwhereapplicable.

2. Tomaximizepedestrianfeelalongtheunderpassstreets, encourage pedestrian-scaled retailsignage on canopies and blade retail signageperpendicular to the retail facades comprisingpartofthebuildingfrontages

4.9PEDESTRIANSIGNAGE


SampleofUnderpassWayfindingSignage. Sample for directional signage design related to thehistoricalcontext.


3. Usebrandingsignageatunderpassestoenhancethegatewayfeaturesoftheunderpasses(SeeSection4.1.2BridgeStructure)

4. Usebannerorartsignageasdistinctivefeaturestobeautifythestreets.

5. Wherepossible,considerusinginterpretivesignagetocelebratelocalheritage

6. Installpedestriansignageatappropriatelocations(e.g.retainingwall,lightingpole,balustrade,pavement,storefront,streetcorner,etc.)dependingonthetype,sizeandpotentialimpactofthesignageonpedestrianrealm.Thelocation,sizeanddesignofthesignagemustnotdistractthedriversandoverpoweradjacentstructures.Itmustrespectthescaleandmaterialoftheadjacentstructures,aswellasthestreetscapecharacterofthearea.Itmustnotprotrudeontothesidewalkorobstructthepedestrianflow.

7. Avoidvisualclutterandsignageproliferationthatdetractfromthequalityofthepedestrianrealm.Designthesignagetobepartoftheoverallgraphicsystemfortheunderpassanditssurroundingareatoestablishthevisualcontinuityofthepedestrianrealm.Requireascale,orientationandlevelofdetailthatisdistinctivefromtrafficsignsinordertoimprovelegibilityandavoidconfusionanddistractionfordrivers.

8. Encouragetheuseofcustom-designedsignageaspublicarttoenrichpedestrianexperiencedependingonthelocalcharacterofthearea(seeSection4.11PublicArt).



Imageofbannersinunderpasses.




9. Develop free-standing, illuminated,directionalkiosksatappropriatelocations,featuring maps of the Centre Citydestinations combined with newspaper/magazine stands and wayfinding(consistency with Wayfinding Study,Centre City Implementation, 2010)features. Kiosks could also function asspecial structures to pronounce gatewayelements.

10. Animated wayfinding or signage are atthediscretionoftheApprovingAuthority,basedonthelocalcontextoftheunderpassandtheevaluationcriteriadefinedinLandUseBylaw1P2007(Signregulationssuchasapprovalprocedure,location,type,size,lettering,colour,illumination).

SampleofPedestrianSignageandWayfinding


The nature of underpasses as below gradebuildingsexposes the technical infrastructureandutilitylinesofthecity’sbuildingsandroads.Theexposedutility infrastructureshouldnotcontradictthedesignimprovementspromotedbythisGuideline:

1. Incorporateutilitypipesinnewunderpassesintobridgestructuressothattheyarenotvisible.

2. Visibleutilitypipesatexistingunderpassesshould blend into underpass colour anddesign theme and should be made lessvisible. Stairwells andpedestrianpassagesshould not be bridged by visually openpipelinesorutilitylines.

3. Stormwater pump stations in newunderpasses should become an integralpartoftheunderpassdesign.Pumpstationaccess areas, doors and windows shouldbeintegratedintotheretainingwalldesign.

51


4.10UTILITYINFRASTRUCTUREINTEGRATION


12STSW

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Imageofanunderpassstructurewithintegratednon-visibleutilitylinescocealedbylightingelements.

X


4.11UNDERPASSART


Artinunderpassesisanyworkofartordesignthat is created by an acknowledged artistspecificallytobesitedinapublicspace,orinthe public accessible private space along theunderpass streets. Public art installations areat the discretion of theApprovingAuthority,basedontheCorporatePublicArtPolicy(CPS2009-33)whichoutlines theCity’s artpolicyand encourages art within the pedestrianrealm.Theintentofunderpassartinstallationsisto:

•Givepedestriansadirectorsubconsciousfeelingofcomfortandsafety

• Commemoratespecificeventsandhistoricfigures, to give character to the gatewayfunction into downtown and to establishownershipoftheunderpassrealm.

• Makeliving,workingandvisitingCalgaryaninteresting,thought-provokingandcreativeexperience.

Retainingwallsculptures

Ceilinginstallations

Imageofwallartandmedianartinunderpassesenvironment


1. Installunderpassartatstrategic locationsincludingretainingwalls,cornersituations,bridge balustrades, building walls andsetbackareas.Artobjectsshallnotencroachintothesidewalkzone.Animatedartshallnotinterferewithtrafficregulations.

2. Art installations in underpasses could betemporaryorbecomeapermanentpublicfeature.Inbothcasestheoutdoorexhibitsrequire ongoing maintenance due toexposure to theelements,vandalismandpollution.

3. Other underpass art installations can bethe display of artistic features within theunderpasse.g.murals,mosaics,andphotoinstallations.These artistic displays couldbecome a constantly changing sceneryprovided by community groups, schools,and art classes.The available wall spacecanbeturnedintoaninteresting,thought-provokingandcreativeexperience.

4. Allowanimatedwayfindingpublicartonlyat strategic locations (e.g., commercialstreets,majorpublicspaces,entertainmentdistricts), and at the discretion of theApproving Authority, based on the localcontextoftheunderpass.


4.11UNDERPASSART


Artinunderpassesisanyworkofartordesignthat is created by an acknowledged artistspecificallytobesitedinapublicspace,orinthe public accessible private space along theunderpass streets. Public art installations areat the discretion of theApprovingAuthority,basedontheCorporatePublicArtPolicy(CPS2009-33)whichoutlines theCity’s artpolicyand encourages art within the pedestrianrealm.Theintentofunderpassartinstallationsisto:

•Givepedestriansadirectorsubconsciousfeelingofcomfortandsafety

• Commemoratespecificeventsandhistoricfigures, to give character to the gatewayfunction into downtown and to establishownershipoftheunderpassrealm.

• Makeliving,workingandvisitingCalgaryaninteresting,thought-provokingandcreativeexperience.

Lightinginstallation Mosaicartinstallationontheretainingwallunderthebridge

TemporaryDisplays Façadeprojection


5.1IMPLEMENTATION

5.0ImplementationRecommendations

54

A successful implementation of this Guideline requires thecollaborativeworkofbusinessunitsoftheCityofCalgary.Paralleltothiswork,thebuildingofpar tnershipswithkeystakeholderswillbenecessarytoprovideownership.Private Development

The underpass design elements will be implemented through thedevelopmentreviewprocess.Thisappliestoanynewdevelopmentpermitapplicationandrenewalofanexistingdevelopmentpermitapplication along theunderpass street between9Avenue and10Avenue.

City-initiatedpublicimprovementprojectswillbecoordinatedthrough:

• Thebusinessplanningandbudgetcoordinationprocess

• LandUsePlanningandPolicyworkprogram

• Transportationworkprogram

• CentreCityImplementationworkprogram

TheprocessinvolvesCityofCalgaryinternalbusinessunitsaswellsasexternalstakeholderssuchasTourismCalgary,DowntownandBeltlineBusinessAssociations,CPR,theCalgaryStampedeandlandownersalongtheunderpassstreets.

Funding Mechanism

ThisGuidelinetiesintootherongoingLandUsePlanningandPolicyworkprogramincludingnewCM-2bonussystemandCPRspecialareastudy.Bythetimetheseprojectsarecompletedandapprovedby Council, more funding opportunities may have been exploredwithanestablisheddensitybonussystemandaCPRSpecialAreaInvestment Fund. Other funding sources may also be considered(suchasDowntownInvestmentFund,BeltlineCommunityInvestmentFund,etc.),whichcanbedeterminedonacasebycaseorsitebysitebasis.Timing for theunderpass improvementswilldependonCity work programs and priorities as well as on the priorities ofotherstakeholders.Theprioritiesasrecommendedinthefollowingsectionshouldserveasaguideinthedevelopmentoffuturenewunderpassesandexistingunderpassimprovements.


5.2PRIORITIES

5.0 Implementation Recommendations

55

The following table could be used as a decision-making tool to setpriorities for the implementation of any new underpass and existingunderpassimprovements:

Priorities for New Underpasses

• NP1:newunderpass,alldesignguidelinesapply(Section4.0)

• NP2:proposedunderpassasperCentreCityPlan(2007),alldesignguidelinesapply(Section4.0)

• NP3:potentialunderpass,alldesignguidelinesapply(Section4.0)orities for Existing Underpasses

• EP1:short-termimprovements,relativelylowcost

• EP2:short-termimprovements,mediumcost

• EP3:mid-termimprovements,highcost

Priorities for All Underpasses

• P1:1stpriority P2:2ndpriority P3:3rdpriority

R

ecommendations

Intermsofpriority,twoapproaches(orthecombination)aresuggestedinthisGuideline:

1. Underpass-basedimprovements

• ItmeansdealingwithoneselectedunderpassatatimeandapplyingallmajordesignelementssuggestedinthisGuidelinetothatparticularunderpass.

• 4StreetSE,MacleodTrailSE,1StreetSW,4StreetSW,and8StreetSWareidentifiedasprioritiesforunderpass-basedimprovements.

2. Underpasselement-basedimprovements

• Itmeansdealingwithoneormoreunderpasselementsforafewselectedunderpassesatatime.Thismayinvolvebothelement-basedbasicimprovementsandaestheticupgradesdependingonthefundingavailable.

• Allunderpassesareidentifiedasprioritiesforelement-basedbasicimprovements.

• 4StreetSE,MacleodTrailSE,1StreetSW,4StreetSW,and8StreetSWareidentifiedasprioritiesforelement-basedaestheticupgrades.


5.0 Implementation Recommendations

Criteria Priorities

UnderpassOverall Physical Condition

CPP (City Centre Plan) Importance

Pedestrian / cyclist Volume

Priority - All Elements (average)

Priority - All

New Underpasses

4StSE N/A High N/A NP1 P1

2StSW N/A High High NP2 P3

11StSW N/A High Medium NP3 P3

Existing Underpasses

MacLeodTrSE Poor High Low EP1 P1

1StSE Poor Low Medium EP3 P2

1StSW Fair High High EP2 P1

4StSW Poor High High EP2 P1



14StSW Poor Low N/A EP2 P2

7StSE Poor Low Low EP3 P2

A1APPENDICES: JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

Appendices

AppendixA: Glossary................................................................................................A2

AppendixB: UnderpassAnalysis.........................................................................A3

AppendixC: CaseStudy......................................................................................... A63

AppendixD: ProjectCredits................................................................................ A77

A2 APPENDIX A: JULY 2010 DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

Underpass: Passagewayforvehiclesorpedestriansthatrunsunderarailway.Thepassagewayincludesthecompletestreetbodybelowgradebetween9Avenueand10AvenueSE/SW.\

Active Edge: Thebuilding linealong theunderpass sidewalks,which is characterizedbycontinuouspedestrianoriented frontswithwindowanddoorsopentothesidewalk.

Retaining Wall: Wallsthatseparatetheunderpassalongthesidewalkpodiumfromtheadjacentproperties,wallsunderneaththesidewalkpodiumalongthetrafficlanesandwallsunderneaththebridgespan.

Pedestrian Realm: Thepubliclyaccessiblespacebetweenstreetcurbandbuildingline.

Additional Lighting: Illuminatesthestreet,thebridgestructure,retainingwalls,andadjacentbuildingswithluminairesinadditiontothefunctionalstreetlightingtoprovideacomprehensivelylitstreet.

Universal Design: Streetsurfacedesignwhichprovidesaccessforpeopleofallabilities.

Bridge Structure: Structuresupportingtherailwaythatrunsacrossthestreet

Pedestrian Signage: Directsandorientspedestriansandcyclisttosurroundingkeydestinations(e.g.transit,retailareas,publicbuildingsandlocations)inadditiontotrafficsignage.

Public Art: Artinunderpassesisanyworkofartordesignthatiscreatedbyanacknowledgedartistspecificallytobesitedinapublicspace,orinthepublicaccessibleprivatespace

Braille: TheBraillesystemisamethodthatiswidelyusedbyblindpeopletoreadandwrite.Braillewasdevisedin1821byLouisBraille,ablindFrenchman.EachBraillecharacterorcellismadeupofsixdotpositions,arrangedinarectanglecontainingtwocolumnsofthreedotseach.UrbanBrailleisatermusedbyplannersforaBraillesysteminthepublicrealm.

GPS Braille: Afreelyaccessiblesystemwhichsupportsabraillesysteminthepublicrealm.TheGlobalPositioningSystem(GPS)isaspace-basedglobalnavigationsatellitesystemthatprovidesreliablelocationandtimeinformationinallweatherandatalltimesandanywhereonorneartheEarthwherethereisanunobstructedlineofsighttofourormoreGPSsatellites.ItismaintainedbytheUnitedStatesgovernmentandisfreelyaccessiblebyanyonewithaGPSreceiver.

AppendixA:Glossary

A3


Appendix B: Underpass Analysis

APPENDIX B: DRAFT REPORT JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES A3


APPENDIX B: DRAFT REPORT JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

1.0 7 Street SE Underpasses ......................................................................................................................A4

2.0 4 Street SE Underpass (Under Construction) ..................................................................................A9

3.0 Macleod Trail SE Underpass .................................................................................................................A12

4.0 1 Street SE Underpass ..........................................................................................................................A19

5.0 1 Street SW Underpass .......................................................................................................................A25

6.0 2 Street SW Underpass (Proposed Underpass) ...............................................................................A32

7.0 4 Street SW Underpasses ...................................................................................................................A35

8.0 5 Street SW Underpass .......................................................................................................................A41

9.0 8 Street SW Underpasses ...................................................................................................................A47

10.0 11 Street SW Crossing (Potential Underpass) .................................................................................A53

11.0 14 Street SW Underpass .....................................................................................................................A57


A4 APPENDIX B: JULY 2010 DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

1.07STREETSEUNDERPASS

4A

6 1

3

2

5

4

6 7

1.1 Local Context

1235

A5



APPENDIX B: JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

Criteria Ref No. Descriptions

Physical

Context

BuiltForm

1

24

• ElbowRiverbridgewithunderpassbuiltin1912with2m/6’6”clearanceforvehiclesandverylowclearanceforpedestriansandbikersalongElbowRiver

• UnderpassforpedestrianandbikersontheEastsideofElbowRiver• Nobuildingsinclosevicinityoftheunderpass• Streetdoesnotaccommodateclearvisibility,whenapproachingunderpass

PedestrianRealm

2,5

37

• Unattractivepedestrianrealmunderneathbridgeduetoverylowbridgeceiling;darknessduringdaytimes

• Singlesidewalkandbike-pathbetweenstreetandElbowRiver• Pedestrianandbikepathcontinuousunderneath9AVSEbridge

RedevelopmentOpportunities A • Cornerlotpotentialon(9AVSEand7Stforcommercialuse)

Linkages 3,7 • Majorregionalmulti-usepathlinkalongElbowRiver

RoadDesign 4,5,6• 2one-waytrafficlanes(clearance,width,andcurveradiidonotfulfillcurrentroad

designstandards)• Vehiclestaller6’6”getstuckfrequentlyunderneathbridge

Policy Context


• KeyOn-StreetBicycleRoutecrosses9AVSE


1.2 Context Analysis



BridgeStructure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps(ifany)

√

Medians(none) - - - -

Railings √

Pedestrian/BuildingorParkingLotInterface

FunctionalLighting √

ActiveEdges(none) - - - -

AdvancedLighting(none) - - - √

BikeFacilities(none) √

Landscaping √

UniversalDesign(none) - - - √

PedestrianSignage √

UnderpassArts(none) - - - -

1.3 Evaluation Matrix

Design Elements

Evaluation of Existing ConditionsCriteria:SurfacePhysicalImpression,Functionality,Safety,ExistingorNon-existing,StructuralCondition(evaluatedbyCityofCalgary,Roads)

Poor ConditionsImmediateimprovementrequired

Fair ConditionsMayneedsomeimprovement

Good ConditionsMaynotneedimprovementintheshortterm

Not ApplicableCurrentlynon-existingfeatureswhicharestronglyrecommended


A7




Design Elements RecommendedSection No. For Design Guidelines

BridgeStructure • Thesteelstructureisinneedofoverallcleaning(graffitiremoval),derustingandpainting. 4.1

Balustrades • Seeabove 4.1

RetainingWalls• Theretainingwallsupportingthebridgestructureneedsabrightpaintwhichshouldbe

renewedfrequently.Therailroaddamneedsadditionalfortificationandlandscapingtopreventgravelanddirtfromslidingontothestreet.

4.2

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps • Norecommendations

Medians • n/a

Railings • Therailingsonbothsidesofthesidewalkarecrockedandneedadjustment 4.1


• n/a

FunctionalLighting • Improvedfunctionallightingtobrightenthebridgerealm 4.4

1.4 Recommendations




Design Elements Ideas/RecommendationsSection No. for Design Guidelines

ActiveEdges • n/a

AdvancedLighting • n/a

BikeFacilities • Maintainoff-streetmulti-usepathwayseparatedfromtrafficlanes 4.5

Landscaping• landscapingofrailroadsteepslopeordamandroadsteepslopesof9AvSEtoenhance

thebridgerealmaspartoftheElbowRiverscenery4.7

UniversalDesign • n/a

PedestrianSignageandUnderpassArts

• Usepedestriansignageatappropriatelocationstodirect,advertiseandtellstories 4.9

1.4 Recommendations


A9




1 2

3

6

1

2

3

4

5/6 5

4

2.04STREETSEUNDERPASS(UNDERCONSTRUCTION)

2.1 Local Context

A

B

C

D

EF



Ref No.

Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm

12

543

• Adjacenttohistoricalwarehousedistrict• KingEdwardhotelasadesignatedCategoryAbuildingofhistoricalandsocialsignificanceandsite

ofthefutureCantos’sNationalMusicCentre• New“Arriva”buildingasangoodexampleofhigh-densityresidentialdevelopmentinthearea• Manyunder-developedandvacantlands• New“DistrictEnergy”buildingon4StSEand9AveSE

PedestrianRealm5,6

• Unevenpavementanddeterioratingsidewalkqualityinmostareas• High-qualitypedestrianrealm(activeuseatthepodiumlevel,high-qualitypavement,sidewalkwith

trees)at“Arrival”• Lackofpedestrianactivitiesbecauseofthemainlysinglepurposebuildingsandalackofresidential

useinthearea

RedevelopmentOpportunities

B,DAA,E,C

• New“urbanvillage”asenvisionedintheDowntownEastVillageARP• New“Railtown”proposalfortheRemingtonlands• Upcomingconstructionofthenew4thStreetSEUnderpass• CalgaryStampedenew“highstreet”proposalwithavarietyofretailuses,publicspaces,streettreesandon-street

parking• InpartnershipwithCP,theCityplaysanimportantroleinfutureredevelopmentoftheareadirectlyadjacenttothe

proposedunderpassbridge.

Linkages• CloseproximitytotheWarehouseDistrict,StampedeParkandEastVillage• MajortransportationinitiativelinkingEastVillageandCalgaryStampede• Majorsouth-northlinkforpedestriansandcyclists

RoadDesign F

• 2-waytrafficwith4lanes• Potentialclosureof10thAvenue• Provisionofbothon-streetandoff-streetbikefacilities• Incorporationoflandscapingopportunitiesinthemediandesign

As 4 Street SE Underpass is taken as a case study in this Guideline, please refer to Section 5.0 of this Guideline for details.

2.2 Recommendations


A11




Ref No.

Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm

12

543

• Adjacenttohistoricalwarehousedistrict• KingEdwardhotelasadesignatedCategoryAbuildingofhistoricalandsocialsignificanceandsite

ofthefutureCantos’sNationalMusicCentre• New“Arriva”buildingasangoodexampleofhigh-densityresidentialdevelopmentinthearea• Manyunder-developedandvacantlands• New“DistrictEnergy”buildingon4StSEand9AveSE

PedestrianRealm5,6

• Unevenpavementanddeterioratingsidewalkqualityinmostareas• High-qualitypedestrianrealm(activeuseatthepodiumlevel,high-qualitypavement,sidewalkwith

trees)at“Arrival”• Lackofpedestrianactivitiesbecauseofthemainlysinglepurposebuildingsandalackofresidential

useinthearea


B,DAA,E,C

• New“urbanvillage”asenvisionedintheDowntownEastVillageARP• New“Railtown”proposalfortheRemingtonlands• Upcomingconstructionofthenew4thStreetSEUnderpass• CalgaryStampedenew“highstreet”proposalwithavarietyofretailuses,publicspaces,streettreesandon-street

parking• InpartnershipwithCP,theCityplaysanimportantroleinfutureredevelopmentoftheareadirectlyadjacenttothe

proposedunderpassbridge.

Linkages• CloseproximitytotheWarehouseDistrict,StampedeParkandEastVillage• MajortransportationinitiativelinkingEastVillageandCalgaryStampede• Majorsouth-northlinkforpedestriansandcyclists

RoadDesign F

• 2-waytrafficwith4lanes• Potentialclosureof10thAvenue• Provisionofbothon-streetandoff-streetbikefacilities• Incorporationoflandscapingopportunitiesinthemediandesign

As 4 Street SE Underpass is taken as a case study in this Guideline, please refer to Section 5.0 of this Guideline for details.

Ref No.

Descriptions

Policy Context


• Proposedhigh-speedrailroutealongCPtracks• ProposedSELRTline(atgrade)andLRTstationalongtheCPtracks• 4StreetSEasaPedestrianCorridor,KeyOn-streetBicycleRoute,Pedestrian/RetailStreet• Withincharacterareas—NorthStampedeEntranceWayandhistoricalWarehouseDistrict

2.2 Recommendations




12345

6

1 2

3 4

5 6

7

7

8

3.0MACLEODTRAILSE

3.1 Local Context

A

8B C

D

E

A13




Ref No. Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm

• CloseproximitytothespecialplacesincludingtheWarehouseDistrict,StampedePark,StevenAvenue,theMunicipalBuildingandtheOlympicPlazaCulturalDistrict

• New“Keynote”developmentthatisunderconstructionincluding457residentialunits,anofficebuildingandcommercialusesatgrade

PedestrianRealm

2,451,357

86

• Currentlynotahighpedestrianvolumestreet• Rustybridgestructure,balustradesandrailings• Commercialadvertisingatthebalustradefacingtothesouthwherethetrafficcomesfrom• Waterrunoffonretainingwallsespeciallyunderthebridge• Poorlightingconditionsunderthebridge• Highfencingalongprivatepropertiesandthestormwaterpumpstation• visiblegarbageonthestreetandinthelandscapedareas• FunctionaldirectionalsignagetoparkinglotsandFortCalgaryHistoricalPark• Landscapingalongtheparkinglotedgeandsomebuildingsetbackareas


A,B,C,ED

• Vacantandvirtuallyvacantdevelopablelandssurroundingtheunderpassbridge• Newlyapproved“SkyTower”bringingin220residentialunitsaswellasofficecommercialtothearea

Linkages

• Majorpedestrianlinkagesamongabove-mentionedspecialplaces• MajorgatewaytoDowntownfromsouthpartofthecitywithhightrafficvolume(over20,000vehicles

perday)• Majorsouth-northbusrouteintoDowntown

RoadDesign 6• 4one-waytrafficlanes• NoMedian• Approx.2,4msidewalk

3.0MACLEODTRAILSE




Ref No.

Descriptions

Policy Context


• Proposedhigh-speedrailroutealongCPtracks• ProposedSELRTline(atgrade)andLRTstationalongtheCPtracks• 4StreetSEasaPedestrianCorridor,KeyOn-streetBicycleRoute,Pedestrian/RetailStreet• Withincharacterareas—NorthStampedeEntranceWayandhistoricalWarehouseDistrict• Potentiallocationforpublicartattheunderpassbridge


3.0MACLEODTRAILSE

A15




BridgeStructure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √


√

Medians(none) - - - √

Railings √


√


ActiveEdges(none) - - - √


BikeFacilities(none) - - - √

Landscaping √



UnderpassArts(none) - - - √

Design Elements







3.0MACLEODTRAILSE



Design Elements RecommendationsSection No. for Design Guidelines

BridgeStructure • Newpaintingrequired 4.1

Balustrades• Newpaintingrequired• Discouragecommercialadvertisingonbalustrades• Brandingopportunitiesonbalustrades

4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“green”retainingwalls• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonthewalls• Whereapplicable,providesurfaceforcomfortablesittingatthelowerportionoftheretainingwalls

4.2

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps• Addsidewalkstonorthsideof10Avenue• Cleartheclutters(lightingpoles,garbagecans,etc.)atthecorners• Usedurable,high-qualitypavementforsidewalks

4.54.8

Medians• DuetolimitedroadRight-of-waywidth(about20.1m)andrequirementsfor4trafficlanes(13.4m),thereis

nospaceforamedianundercurrentconditions4.6

Railings • Newrailingstoreplacetherustedones 4.1


• Cleanupthevisiblegarbage• Discouragefencingaroundprivateproperties• Maximizelandscapingopportunitiesatthesetbackareas

4.74.3

FunctionalLighting • Requirenewlightingtobrightentheareaunderthebridge 4.4

3.4 Recommendations

3.0MACLEODTRAILSE

A17







4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“green”retainingwalls• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonthewalls• Whereapplicable,providesurfaceforcomfortablesittingatthelowerportionoftheretainingwalls

4.2

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps• Addsidewalkstonorthsideof10Avenue• Cleartheclutters(lightingpoles,garbagecans,etc.)atthecorners• Usedurable,high-qualitypavementforsidewalks

4.54.8


nospaceforamedianundercurrentconditions4.6




4.74.3



ActiveEdges• Requireactiveusebuildingfrontagesalongthestreetforallnewdevelopments• Whereveropportunitiesexist,renovateexistingbuildingstoopendoorsandwindowsfacingtothestreetand

provideactiveedgesalongthestreet4.3

AdvancedLighting• Consideradvancedlightingoftrafficlanes,bridgestructure,balustrades,retainingwalls,foliageandbuilding

facadestoenhancepedestrianexperience4.4

BikeFacilities • Providemulti-usepathwayalongeastsideofthestreet 4.5

Landscaping

• DuetolimitedroadRight-of-waywidth(about20.1m)andrequirementsfor4trafficlanes(13.4m),thereisnotenoughspaceinthepublicdomainforaminimum1.5mtree/planter/flowerbedandfurnishingzonewhilemaintaininga3mwideclearpedestrianzone,unless:

• A5.182msetbackonbothsidesofthestreet(tobeconsistenttotheBylawsetbackrequirements)isrequiredforthefirstlevelofanynewdevelopmentalongthestreet,whichwillwidenthepedestrianrealmandtransformthestreetintoaboulevardstreetscapecharacter

4.5

4.7

UniversalDesign• Asafuturehighpedestrianvolumestreet,thedesignofthesidewalkmustprovidefullaccessforthephysically

challengedincludingthevisuallychallenged4.8

PedestrianSignage • Usepedestriansignageatappropriatelocationstodirect,advertiseandtellstories 4.9

UnderpassArts• Underpassartsatthebalustrades,theretainingwalls,orembeddedinthesidewalks• Underpassartsatappropriatelocationssuchasbuildingsetbackareas,corners,furnishingandtreezones• Underpassartsasthestorytellingfeaturetocelebratelocalhistory

4.11

3.4 Recommendations

3.0MACLEODTRAILSE



AlthoughMacleodTrailSEunderpasscurrentlyhaslowpedestrianvolumeandhighvehiculartrafficvolume,theunderpassanditssurroundingareashouldbeontheprioritylistforfutureimprovements,consideringitshighimportanceinimplementingthevisionsoftheCentreCityPlanandtheBeltlineARP.Inthelongterm,itwillbetransformedintoapedestrian-orientedareawithhigh-qualitypublicrealmandprivatedevelopments.

DesignelementsoftheproposedMacLeodTrailmajorroadconstructionproject(Planningphasein2009)between7Stand8STshouldcorrelatetothefutureunderpassredesign..

3.0MACLEODTRAILSE

3.4 Recommendations

A19




4.1 Local Context


1 2

3 4

5 6

7 8

A 6

12347

5

8

B

C




Physical Context

BuiltForm5 • CloseproximitytothespecialplacesincludingtheWarehouseDistrict,theOlympicPlaza,StevenAvenue,

andCalgaryTower.New“PalliserSouth”(10/11)and“PalliserSquare”(14)officedevelopmentsareunderconstruction.

PedestrianRealm

• Currentlynotahighpedestrianvolumestreet• Crackedsidewalkpavement• Highconcreteretainingwallsalongprivatepropertieswithuntreatedsurface• Rustybridgestructure,balustradesandrailings• Commercialadvertisingatthebalustradefacingtothenorthwherethetrafficcomesfrom• Waterrunoffonretainingwallsespeciallyunderthebridge;litter• Poorlightingconditionsunderthebridge• Highfencingalongprivateproperties• Directionalsignage(stand-alonekiosk)toparkinglotsandparkadesonprivateproperties• Fewlandscapingalongtheparkinglotedgeandbuildingsetbackareas• Blueandorangepaintfoundontheportionofthebridgestructurearoundpedestrianrealm• Clutters(garbagecans,lightingpoles,parkingmachines)atstreetcorners


ABC

• Largevacantdevelopablelandsatthesoutheastcorneroftheunderpassbridge• Newlyapproved“SkyTower”willbringin220residentialunitsandofficecommercialtothearea• Newlyapproved(landuseapplication)“MustardSeed”willbringin407residentialunitstothearea

Linkages• GatewayfromDowntowntosouthpartofthecitywithhightrafficvolumeMajorsouth-northbusrouteinto

Downtown• Nophysicalorvisuallinkbetweenthepublicaccessibleprivatelyownedcornerparkat9Avenueand1StreetSE

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• NoMedian

Policy Context


• Proposedhigh-speedrailroutealongCPtracks• ProposedSELRTline(undergroundtoabove-gradetransitionarea)alongtheCPtracks• 1StreetSEasaMajorBusRoute,ProposedKeyOn-streetBicycleRoute,withBoulevardstreetscapecharacters• Withincharacterareas—historicalWarehouseDistrict• Potentiallocationforartattheunderpassbridge



1,54,527

148

3

A21





Physical Context

BuiltForm5 • CloseproximitytothespecialplacesincludingtheWarehouseDistrict,theOlympicPlaza,StevenAvenue,

andCalgaryTower.New“PalliserSouth”(10/11)and“PalliserSquare”(14)officedevelopmentsareunderconstruction.

PedestrianRealm

• Currentlynotahighpedestrianvolumestreet• Crackedsidewalkpavement• Highconcreteretainingwallsalongprivatepropertieswithuntreatedsurface• Rustybridgestructure,balustradesandrailings• Commercialadvertisingatthebalustradefacingtothenorthwherethetrafficcomesfrom• Waterrunoffonretainingwallsespeciallyunderthebridge;litter• Poorlightingconditionsunderthebridge• Highfencingalongprivateproperties• Directionalsignage(stand-alonekiosk)toparkinglotsandparkadesonprivateproperties• Fewlandscapingalongtheparkinglotedgeandbuildingsetbackareas• Blueandorangepaintfoundontheportionofthebridgestructurearoundpedestrianrealm• Clutters(garbagecans,lightingpoles,parkingmachines)atstreetcorners


ABC

• Largevacantdevelopablelandsatthesoutheastcorneroftheunderpassbridge• Newlyapproved“SkyTower”willbringin220residentialunitsandofficecommercialtothearea• Newlyapproved(landuseapplication)“MustardSeed”willbringin407residentialunitstothearea

Linkages• GatewayfromDowntowntosouthpartofthecitywithhightrafficvolumeMajorsouth-northbusrouteinto

Downtown• Nophysicalorvisuallinkbetweenthepublicaccessibleprivatelyownedcornerparkat9Avenueand1StreetSE

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• NoMedian

Policy Context


• Proposedhigh-speedrailroutealongCPtracks• ProposedSELRTline(undergroundtoabove-gradetransitionarea)alongtheCPtracks• 1StreetSEasaMajorBusRoute,ProposedKeyOn-streetBicycleRoute,withBoulevardstreetscapecharacters• Withincharacterareas—historicalWarehouseDistrict• Potentiallocationforartattheunderpassbridge

BridgeStructure √

RetainingWalls √


√


Railings √


√


ActiveEdges(none) √PalliserSouth √



Landscaping √





Design Elements










BridgeStructure • Newcoordinatedpaintingrequiredforallstructureelements 4.1


4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“layered”and“green”retainingwalls• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonthewalls• Whereapplicable,providesurfaceforcomfortablesittingatthelowerportionoftheretainingwalls

4.2

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps

• Addsidewalkstonorthsideof10Avenue• Cleartheclutters(lightingpoles,garbagecans,etc.)atthecorners• Replacecrackedconcretesidewalkswithnewones

4.54.8


nospaceforamedianundercurrentcondition4.6




4.34.7


4.3 Recommendations


A23





BridgeStructure • Newcoordinatedpaintingrequiredforallstructureelements 4.1


4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“layered”and“green”retainingwalls• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonthewalls• Whereapplicable,providesurfaceforcomfortablesittingatthelowerportionoftheretainingwalls

4.2


• Addsidewalkstonorthsideof10Avenue• Cleartheclutters(lightingpoles,garbagecans,etc.)atthecorners• Replacecrackedconcretesidewalkswithnewones

4.54.8


nospaceforamedianundercurrentcondition4.6




4.34.7



ActiveEdges• Requireactiveusebuildingfrontagesalongthestreetforallnewdevelopments• Whereveropportunitiesexist,renovateexistingbuildingstoopendoorsandwindowsfacingtothestreet

andprovideactiveedgesalongthestreet4.3


facadestoenhancepedestrianexperience4.4

BikeFacilities • Providemulti-usepathwayalongwestsideofthestreet 4.5

Landscaping

• DuetolimitedroadRight-of-waywidth(about20.1m)andrequirementsfor4trafficlanes(13.4m),thereisnotenoughspaceinthepublicdomainforaminimum1.5mtreeandfurnishingzonewhilemaintaininga3mwideclearpedestrianzone,unless:

• A5.182msetbackonbothsidesofthestreet(tobeconsistenttotheBylawsetbackrequirements)isrequiredforthefirstlevelofanynewdevelopmentalongthestreet,whichwillwidenthepedestrianrealmandtransformthestreetintoaboulevardstreetscapecharacter

4.34.7

UniversalDesign• Thedesignofthesidewalkmustprovidefullaccessforthephysicallychallengedincludingthevisually

challenged4.8



4.11

4.3 Recommendations




1StreetSEunderpasscurrentlyhashighvehiculartrafficvolumebutlowpedestrianvolume.Therefore,themainfocusoftheunderpassanditssurroundingareaimprovementsintheshorttermshouldbeonbasicelementsandpoor/fairconditionsascheckedintheEvaluationMatrix.Inthelongterm,newdesignfeaturesasrecommendedheremaybeapplied.

Therecentdevelopmentonthecornerof1StreetSEand10Ave(seePicture6)issettingagoodexampleforintegratingthepublicandprivaterealm..

4.01STSTREETSEUNDERPASS

4.3 Recommendations

A25




5.01STREETSWUNDERPASS

5.1 Local Context

5

4

6

1 2

5

3

6

4

1,2,3




Physical Context

BuiltForm23

6

• CloseproximitytospecialplacesincludingtheWarehouseDistrict,CentralMemorialPark,andHaultainPark;newofficeandcommercialdevelopmentsareunderconstructionincludingHomburgHarrisCentre,BankersCourt,GrenvilleGermainComplex,andPalliserSquareRedevelopment

• AheritageunderpasslocatedattheoldCPRtrainstation,andsurroundedbyanumberofheritagebuildingsalongthestreet

• Thedomestructureat+15levelextendinghistoricFairmountPalliserHotelacross1StreetSWprovidesarecognizableimageofthearea

• PalliserHotelprovidesactiveedgefrontagewithit’sbasementdoorsandwindows

PedestrianRealm

2

1

1

312

• Averyhighpedestrianvolumestreet• Crackedsidewalkcondition,unevenconcretepadsatthecorner,whichmakeitdifficultforpedestrians

especiallythephysicallychallenged.• ThecommemorativeCPRtrainsculpturesattachedontheretainingwallsunderneaththebridgestructure

areuniquefeaturesthatenhancethepedestrianexperienceinthearea.• Visiblewaterrunoffonretainingwallsunderneaththebridge;Catchbasininthemiddleofsidewalk.• Specialdesignedrailingsconsistenttotheoverallheritagetraintheme.• Poorlightingconditionsunderthebridge.• Poormaintenances-rustyrailings,graffiti,dustytrainsculpture,etc.• Newdevelopmentalongwestsideofthestreetshowssomeeffortsinimprovingthebuildinginterfaceby

openingdoorsatsidewalklevel,specialfaçadetreatmentsandcornertreatmentsatthe9thAVinterface.However,noactiveuseiscurrentlyprovidedtoenhancepedestrianexperience.

• Landscapingalongtheparkinglotedgeandsomebuildingsetbackareas.


A • Vacantdevelopablelandatsouthwestcorneroftheunderpassbridge,whichiscurrentlyasurfaceparkinglot.

Linkages• MajorpedestrianlinkagesbetweenDowntownandeastpartoftheBeltline.• MajorpedestrianandbicyclelinkbetweentheBowRiverandtheElbowRiverpathwaysystems.

RoadDesign• 4two-waytrafficlanes• NoMedian



A27





Policy Context


• ProposedSELRTline(undergroundportion)alongtheCPtracks• 1StreetSWasaPedestrianCorridor,MajorBusRoute,KeyOn-streetBicycleRoute,withHighStreet

streetscapecharacters• Withincharacterareas—historicalWarehouseDistrict• 1StreetSWastheProposedNeighbourhoodCentrefortheneighbourhoodofVictoriaCrossingCentre.• Potentiallocationforpublicartattheunderpassbridge





Bridge Structure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps(ifany) √


Railings √


√


ActiveEdges(none) √



Landscaping √



UnderpassArts(none) √


Design Elements







A29




Bridge Structure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps(ifany) √


Railings √


√


ActiveEdges(none) √



Landscaping √



UnderpassArts(none) √

Design Elements









4.1

RetainingWalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofsurfacematerials(e.g.,ceramictiles)andembedded

lightingfeaturestoenhancetheheritagetrainsculpturesattachedtothewalls4.2


• Addsidewalkstonorthsideof10Avenue• Cleartheclutters(lightingpoles,garbagecans,etc.)atthecorners• Sidewalkimprovementatcornerstoensureaccessibilityandsafety• Usedurable,high-qualitypavementforsidewalks

4.5

4.8

Medians• DuetolimitedroadRight-of-waywidth(about20.1m)andrequirementsfor4trafficlanes(13.4m),

thereisnospaceforamedianundercurrentconditions4.6

Railings • Newpaintingrequired 4.1



4.3

4.7


5.4 Recommendations





ActiveEdges• Requireactiveusebuildingfrontagesalongthestreetforallnewdevelopments• Whereveropportunitiesexist,renovate/reconfigureexistingbuildingstoopendoorsandwindowsfacing

tothestreetandprovideactiveuses4.3


facadestoenhancepedestrianexperience• Useseasonallightingtoenhancepedestrianexperience

4.4

BikeFacilities • Duetothenarrownessofthestreet,sharedtravellanes(on-streetbikefacilities)areproposed 4.5

Landscaping• Landscaping(tree,flowerbed,andfurnishingzone)shouldbeprovidedinthe2.134msetbackzoneforat

leastthefirstlevelofanynewdevelopment4.7

4.3

UniversalDesign• Asahighpedestrianvolumestreet,thedesignofthesidewalkmustprovidefullaccessforthephysically




4.11


5.4 Recommendations

A31





ActiveEdges• Requireactiveusebuildingfrontagesalongthestreetforallnewdevelopments• Whereveropportunitiesexist,renovate/reconfigureexistingbuildingstoopendoorsandwindowsfacing

tothestreetandprovideactiveuses4.3


facadestoenhancepedestrianexperience• Useseasonallightingtoenhancepedestrianexperience

4.4

BikeFacilities • Duetothenarrownessofthestreet,sharedtravellanes(on-streetbikefacilities)areproposed 4.5

Landscaping• Landscaping(tree,flowerbed,andfurnishingzone)shouldbeprovidedinthe2.134msetbackzoneforat

leastthefirstlevelofanynewdevelopment4.7

4.3

UniversalDesign• Asahighpedestrianvolumestreet,thedesignofthesidewalkmustprovidefullaccessforthephysically




4.11

1StreetSWunderpasscurrentlyhasahighconcentrationofpedestrianmovement.Theunderpassanditssurroundingareashouldbeonthehighprioritylistforfutureimprovements.ItwillbetransformedtoahighstreetasenvisionedintheCentreCityPlan.Thepedestrianrealm,especiallytheinterfacezoneshouldaccommodateafullrangeofactivitiesfromretailtohospitality(patios)aswellasotheractivities.Thethemeoftheunderpassimprovementshouldbuildonitsexistinghistoriccharacterandtraditionalstyleofamainstreet.


5.4 Recommendations



6. 2 Street SW (underpass (proposed)

6.1 Local Context

6.02STREETUNDERPASS(PROPOSED)

1 2

3 4

5 6

4/5

2

3

1/6

A33





Ref No.

Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm

4 • CloseproximitytothespecialplacesincludingStevenAvenueandBarclayMalltothenorth,CentralMemorialParkandHaultainParktothesouth,andtheWarehouseDistrict.

• LocatedintheheartoftheCentreCity,incloseproximitytomajorbusinesses,entertainmentandculturalamenities.

• NewofficecommercialdevelopmentsareunderconstructionincludingHomburgHarrisCentreandBankersCourt.

PedestrianRealm

2,5,6 • Ahugerampstructurelocatedattheendpointof2StreetSWinbetween9AvenueandtheCPRtracksfunctionsasamainvehicularaccesstotheGulfCanadaParkadefrom9thAvenue.Thereiscurrentlynopedestrianlinkcrossingthetraintracks.


1

• TheCentreCityPlanhasidentified2StreetSWbetween9Avenueand10AvenueasthepotentiallocationforaMulti-modalTransit“Station”,whichconsistsof:

• “Multi-level(at-grade,underground,+15and+30)interconnectedandclimate-controlledinterfacepointsbetweentheCPRtrain,SElegoftheLRTon10AvenueS,CalgaryTransit(busesandLRT)on9and10AvenueS,future8AvenueSandexistingTransitMallon7AvenueS.”

• Anewunderpass-2StreetSWUnderpasswillbeintegratedintotheproposedMulti-modalTransit“Station”.• Vacantdevelopablelandatsoutheastcornerofthefutureunderpassbridge,whichiscurrentlyasurfaceparking

lot.

Linkages4 • PotentialmajorpedestrianandbicyclelinkagesbetweenDowntownandBeltline.

• PotentialmajorpedestrianandbicyclelinkbetweentheBowRiverandtheElbowRiverpathwaysystems.

RoadDesign5,6 • Potentialspaceforbike-lanesandwidesidewalks

• Potential2one-waytrafficlanes

Policy Context


1 • ProposedMulti-modalTransit“Station”• ProposedSELRTline(undergroundportion)alongtheCPtracks• 2StreetSWasaPedestrianCorridor,KeyOn-streetBicycleRoute• Withincharacterareas—historicalWarehouseDistrict• Closetofuture8AvenueSubway• 2StreetSWasaHighPedestrianMovementStreet




Consideringthecomplexityoftheprojectthatinvolvesmajorinfrastructureinvestmentandpublic/privatepartnerships,furtherstudiesarerequiredtoensurethealignmentsofalltheinitiativesandproposalssothattheoverallvisionofaMulti-modalTransit“Station”canberealizedinthefuture.DetailedguidelinesaslistedinSection4.0shouldbeapplieddependingonthesituation.Asaruleofthumb,thefollowingpointsarehighlightedtoguidethedecision-makingprocessrelatedtothedesignofthisparticularfutureunderpassanditssurroundingdevelopments:

• AccordingtoarecentstudyundertakenbytheCity’sTransportationDepartment,2StreetSWcomparingtootherDowntownstreetshasthehighest16-hourinboundbikevolumes.Thereforeitiscrucialtointegratebikefacilitiesintothefutureunderpassdesign:

• Provideoff-streetmulti-usepathwayallalong2StreetSWatthesidewalklevelastheprimaryhorizontallinktotheriverpathwaysystem;oralternatively,provideon-streetseparatedbikelanes.

• Provideconvenientbikeparking(Class1BikeParking)andhorizontalandverticalbikeaccesstoanynewtransitstation(atgrade,underground),aswellastheinsideofthetrainstoencouragetheuseofpublictransit.

• Thefuturemulti-levelstructure(themulti-modaltransit“station”)shouldbecomeadynamictransithubofbothhorizontalandverticalconnectionswherepeoplefromalloverthecitycomeandgo-takingpublictransit,transferringtoanothertransitline,ridingbikestotheriverpathwaysystem,orsimplywalkingtotheirdestinations.Asapeoplegatheringplace,somesupportiveretailuses(e.g.,smallrestaurants,shops,newspaperandmagazinestores)atalllevels(underground,at-grade,+15,and+30)arenecessaryandtheyhavegreatpotentialtosustainandthrive.

• Alltheentrypointstothemulti-modaltransit“Station”shouldbevisible,accessibleforall.

• SincebothfutureSELRTon10AvenueSandfuture8AvenueSubwaywillbeunderground,itwouldbepossibletoworkwithCPandotherpropertyownersregardingprovisionofbelow-gradeplazasandshopsunderthetracksandpedestrian/bikeaccesspointsrightunderneaththefutureunderpassbridgeintegratedwiththemulti-level“Station”.

• Usestreetcornersasthekeyentrancestothe“Station”.Someinnovativedesignsolutionsshouldbeconsideredtodesignthecornersasthefocalpointsofthepublicrealmsystem(e.g.arecessedareaatthecornerforakiosk,asunkenplazasurroundedbybelow-gradeshopswithdirectlinkstotheundergroundtransitstations).

6.3 Recommendations


A35




7.1 Local Context


1

4

2

3

5 6

6

3

1/2

4

5 BA




Physical Context

BuiltForm4 • 1955bridgestructures(CPRand9AvSWcrossing),surroundedbyhigh-densityofficeandparkadeon

eastsideandnewretailandoffice(underconstruction)onwestsideofunderpass

PedestrianRealm

1,2,4

6

14

56

• darkandnarrowpedestrianrealmunderneathbothbridges;unlitsituationevenindaylight;nospaceavailabletoallowbiking

• Noactiveedgeconditionsalongretainingwallsonbothsideofunderpass;greycoloredwallsprovidinguninvitingenvironment

• Blackframe-effectunderneathbothbridges;• opportunityofcreateanewactiveedgebyopeninguptheretainingwallborderingthe8Av

constructionsite• Narrowmedian(<2metres)withraisedconcrete• Narrowstairwellsleadingfrom10Avdowntounderpass;insufficientforpeoplewithphysicalhandicaps;

uncomfortablerealmafterdark


AB4

• Cornerlots(presentuses:surfaceparking)on8and9AveSWoffersavarietyofdevelopmentsolutionsandopportunitiestocreateactiveedgealong5thunderpass;bridgingopportunityutilizingCPRair-space

Linkages • MajorpedestrianlinkagewithhighfrequencybetweenBeltline,StephenAve.Mall,andEatonCentre,

Road Design• 4one-waytrafficlanes• 2.0metre/6.5feetmedian• <2.0metre/<6.5feetsidewalk

Policy Context

Centre City Plan Beltline ARP

• Majorbusroute• Pedestriancorridor



A37





Physical Context

BuiltForm4 • 1955bridgestructures(CPRand9AvSWcrossing),surroundedbyhigh-densityofficeandparkadeon

eastsideandnewretailandoffice(underconstruction)onwestsideofunderpass

PedestrianRealm

1,2,4

6

14

56

• darkandnarrowpedestrianrealmunderneathbothbridges;unlitsituationevenindaylight;nospaceavailabletoallowbiking

• Noactiveedgeconditionsalongretainingwallsonbothsideofunderpass;greycoloredwallsprovidinguninvitingenvironment

• Blackframe-effectunderneathbothbridges;• opportunityofcreateanewactiveedgebyopeninguptheretainingwallborderingthe8Av

constructionsite• Narrowmedian(<2metres)withraisedconcrete• Narrowstairwellsleadingfrom10Avdowntounderpass;insufficientforpeoplewithphysicalhandicaps;

uncomfortablerealmafterdark


AB4

• Cornerlots(presentuses:surfaceparking)on8and9AveSWoffersavarietyofdevelopmentsolutionsandopportunitiestocreateactiveedgealong5thunderpass;bridgingopportunityutilizingCPRair-space

Linkages • MajorpedestrianlinkagewithhighfrequencybetweenBeltline,StephenAve.Mall,andEatonCentre,

Road Design• 4one-waytrafficlanes• 2.0metre/6.5feetmedian• <2.0metre/<6.5feetsidewalk

Policy Context

Centre City Plan Beltline ARP

• Majorbusroute• Pedestriancorridor

BridgeStructure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √


√ √

Railings √ √


√


ActiveEdges(none) - - - √



Landscaping(none) - - √


PedestrianSignage(none) - - - √

UnderpassArts(none) - - √

Design Elements











BridgeStructure • norecommendations 4.1

Balustrades • embedlightingfixturestoenhancebalustrade 4.1

RetainingWalls• embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewallsunderneathbridgestructure• Encourage“green”retainingwallsaspartofdevelopments• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay

4.4

4.7

4.11

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps • overallimprovementofstairwells;considerliftto9AvSW 4.8

Medians• entertainmedianupgradewithe.g.verticalartisticelements,medianlightingfeatures• norecommendations

4.6

Railings • Replacerailingwithnewdesignedrailing 4.1


• norecommendations 4.3

FunctionalLighting • installstreetlightingonmedian4.4

4.6

7.4 Recommendations


A39






Balustrades • embedlightingfixturestoenhancebalustrade 4.1

RetainingWalls• embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewallsunderneathbridgestructure• Encourage“green”retainingwallsaspartofdevelopments• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay

4.4

4.7

4.11

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps • overallimprovementofstairwells;considerliftto9AvSW 4.8


4.6

Railings • Replacerailingwithnewdesignedrailing 4.1


• norecommendations 4.3

FunctionalLighting • installstreetlightingonmedian4.4

4.6


ActiveEdges

• Requireactiveusebuildingfrontagesalongtheunderpassstreetatthesidewalklevelforallnewdevelopments

• Whereveropportunitiesexist,redevelopexistingbuildingsonbasementand/orstreetlevelandprovideactiveedgesalongthestreet

4.3

AdvancedLighting• Consideradvancedlightingoftrafficlanes,bridgestructureofbothbridges,balustrades,retainingwalls,

foliageandbuildingfacadestoenhancepedestrianareaquality4.4

BikeFacilities • Provideon-streetsharedtravellanealongeastsideofthestreet 4.5

Landscaping

• DuetolimitedroadRight-of-waywidth(about20m)andrequirementsfor4trafficlanes(13.4m)andmedian(2m),thereisnotenoughspaceinthepublicdomainforaminimum1.5mtreeandfurnishingzonewhilemaintaininga3mwideclearsidewalk,unless:

• A5.182msetbackonbothsidesofthestreet(tobeconsistenttotheBylawsetbackrequirements)isrequiredforthefirstlevelofanynewdevelopmentalongthestreet,whichwillwidentheareaunderneaththebridgeandtransformthestreetintoaboulevardstreetscapecharacter

4.7

UniversalDesign• Asahighpedestrian-volumestreet,thedesignofthesidewalkmustprovidefullaccessforthe

physicallychallengedincludingthevisuallychallenged.Thestairwellsneedtobeupgraded.4.8


• Usepedestriansignageatappropriatelocationstodirect,advertiseandtellstories• Underpassartsatthebalustrades,theretainingwalls,orembeddedinthesidewalks• Underpassartsatappropriatelocationssuchasbuildingsetbackareas,corners,furnishingandtree

zones

4.9

4.11

7.4 Recommendations




Consideringthe:• HighpedestrianandcyclistvolumetoDowntownfromtheareasSouthoftheBeltline(Mission,Earlton,VictoraPark)• HighCCPimportance• Overallphysicalneedforimprovementsonvariousunderpasselements• Newlyopenedhigh-endretaillocationsatthenorthernentranceoftheunderpass(HoltRenfrew)• AdditionalcomingretaillocationsdirectlyborderingtheWestsideoftheunderpass(8thAveplace)• 4StreetunderpassrequiresahighpriorityforimplementationofthisGuideline.

7.4 Recommendations

7.04THSTREETSWUNDERPASS

A41





8.1 Local Context

1 2

3 4

5 6

6

B

A

3 2

4

5

1

A

DC



Ref No.

Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm 1 • Noexistingbuilt-upareasborderingtheretainingwalls

PedestrianRealm

1,4

31

2

1

54

16

• Pedestrianrealmwithwidesidewalks(3metres)allowingcomfortablespaceforheavypedestriantraffic;bikersusesidewalkasdedicatedMulti-usePathway

• Plainconcretewallinsteadofsteelrailingseparatessidewalkfromcarlanes• Plainconcreteretainingwallsunderneathbridestructure:nowall-mountedlightingfixturesordecorative

elements• Plain,widemedian(3metres)withraisedconcretesurface;balustradewithaggregateconcreteslabs;sewerpipe

alongSouthbalustrade• Aggregatedconcreteplatesmountedonretainingwallwithredcoloredpipehandrailandredcoloredpipe

railingontopside• Featuredstormwatersewerplantbuildingwithseparateentrancefromside• Widecornerradiiwithunclutteredpedestrianrealmatunderpassentrancesatthesouthcorners;inviting

cornersolution(trees,redcoloredpipehandrailsonsouthernend)• Cleanandevensurfacesunderneathbridgestructurewithceilingdownlighting(blackframe-effect)• Attractivepedestrianrealmalong5StSW(Westside)


A,BC,D

• Cornerlots(presentuses:surfaceparking)on8and9AvSWofferavarietyofdevelopmentsolutionsandopportunitiestocreateactiveedgesalong5thunderpass(e.g.bridgingopportunityutilizingCPRair-space)

Linkages6 • MajorpedestrianlinkagewithhighfrequencybetweenBeltline,StephenAve.Mall,EatonCentre,restaurantand

pubdestinationsalong5StnorthofCPRtracks

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• 2.5metre/8feetmedian• 3metreclearanceforsidewalk

Policy Context


• Pedestriancorridor• ExistingOn-StreetBicycleRoute• ProposedKeyOn-StreetBicycleRoute



A43




Ref No.

Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm 1 • Noexistingbuilt-upareasborderingtheretainingwalls

PedestrianRealm

1,4

31

2

1

54

16

• Pedestrianrealmwithwidesidewalks(3metres)allowingcomfortablespaceforheavypedestriantraffic;bikersusesidewalkasdedicatedMulti-usePathway

• Plainconcretewallinsteadofsteelrailingseparatessidewalkfromcarlanes• Plainconcreteretainingwallsunderneathbridestructure:nowall-mountedlightingfixturesordecorative

elements• Plain,widemedian(3metres)withraisedconcretesurface;balustradewithaggregateconcreteslabs;sewerpipe

alongSouthbalustrade• Aggregatedconcreteplatesmountedonretainingwallwithredcoloredpipehandrailandredcoloredpipe

railingontopside• Featuredstormwatersewerplantbuildingwithseparateentrancefromside• Widecornerradiiwithunclutteredpedestrianrealmatunderpassentrancesatthesouthcorners;inviting

cornersolution(trees,redcoloredpipehandrailsonsouthernend)• Cleanandevensurfacesunderneathbridgestructurewithceilingdownlighting(blackframe-effect)• Attractivepedestrianrealmalong5StSW(Westside)


A,BC,D

• Cornerlots(presentuses:surfaceparking)on8and9AvSWofferavarietyofdevelopmentsolutionsandopportunitiestocreateactiveedgesalong5thunderpass(e.g.bridgingopportunityutilizingCPRair-space)

Linkages6 • MajorpedestrianlinkagewithhighfrequencybetweenBeltline,StephenAve.Mall,EatonCentre,restaurantand

pubdestinationsalong5StnorthofCPRtracks

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• 2.5metre/8feetmedian• 3metreclearanceforsidewalk

Policy Context


• Pedestriancorridor• ExistingOn-StreetBicycleRoute• ProposedKeyOn-StreetBicycleRoute

BridgeStructure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √


√

Medians √ √

Railings √


√

FunctionalLighting √ √

ActiveEdges √ √

AdvancedLighting √ √

BikeFacilities √

Landscaping √

UniversalDesign √


UnderpassArts √

Design Elements


Poor ConditionsImmediateImprovementrequired










Balustrades • balustradedesignupgraderequired:embedsmalllightingfixturesaspartoflightingtheme 4.1

RetainingWalls• embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewallsunderneathbridgestructure;createlightingscheme• Encourage“green”retainingwalls• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay

4.2

4.4

4.11

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps • norecommendations


4.6

Railings • Norecommendations


• norecommendations

FunctionalLighting • Norecommendations

8.4 Recommendations


A45






Balustrades • balustradedesignupgraderequired:embedsmalllightingfixturesaspartoflightingtheme 4.1

RetainingWalls• embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewallsunderneathbridgestructure;createlightingscheme• Encourage“green”retainingwalls• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay

4.2

4.4

4.11

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps • norecommendations


4.6

Railings • Norecommendations


• norecommendations

FunctionalLighting • Norecommendations


ActiveEdges• Requireactiveusebuildingfrontagesalongtheunderpassstreetatthesidewalklevelforallnew

developments4.3

AdvancedLighting • Consideradvancedlightingunderneathofbridgestructure,atretainingwallsandatthebalustrade 4.4

BikeFacilities • Provideon-streetsharedtravellanesalongwestsideofthestreet 4.5

Landscaping

• A5.182msetbackonbothsidesofthestreet(tobeconsistenttotheBylawsetbackrequirements)isrequiredforthefirstlevelofanynewdevelopmentalongthestreet,whichwillwidentheareaunderneaththebridgeandalongtheretainingwallandtransformthestreetintoaboulevard-streetscapecharacter

• The3mwidemediancouldallowplantersatselectedlocations

4.7

UniversalDesign• Asahighpedestrian-volumestreet,thedesignofthesidewalkmustprovidefullaccessforthephysically

challengedincludingthevisuallychallenged.4.8


• Usepedestriansignageatappropriatelocationstodirect,advertiseandtellstories• Underpassartsatthebalustrades,theretainingwalls,orembeddedinthesidewalks• Underpassartsatappropriatelocationssuchasbuildingsetbackareas,cornersituations,furnishingandtree

zones

4.94.11

8.4 Recommendations




8.4 Recommendations

The5StreetSWUnderpassisafairlynewunderpassdesignedinafashiontoaccommodatebothvehicular,pedestrianandbicycletraffic.Thecornersectionsareprovidingenoughspaceforaclearpathforpedestrians.Thevisualityintotheunderpassundunderneaththebridgeisgood;therearenodarkcornersorshadowcasts.Despitethelightingablack-frameexists.Theoverallimpressionisaveryfunctionalone.

Inthefuturetheemphasisshouldbeonencouragingdevelopmentstoopenuptheirbasementsontotheunderpassandtocreateactiveedgesalongthepedestrianzone.Inadditionthewidemediancouldbealocationforartisticdisplaysandadditionaldecorativelighting.


A47





9.1 Local Context

1 2

3 4

5 6

B

A6

2/3

4

51




Physical Context

BuiltForm

6 • Lowdensitylandusesolutionatthenorth-westunderpasscorner(clinic)incl.pedestrianpermeability;openspacearoundbuilding,whichencouragespedestriantraffic

• Builtformanduse(restaurant,pub)doesnotopentopedestrianrealm;façadewithoutprovidingarchitecturalactiveedgesolutions

PedestrianRealm

31

4

365

• Pedestrianrealmwhichiscreatingvariousbarriersforpeoplewithphysicalhandicaps• Attractivepatiosolution(barandrestaurant)withopensuptheretainingwall,landscapedbuildingfrontage

andclearvisibilityfromsidewalk• Commercialadvertisingatthebalustrade,whichcoverscompletebalustrade;poorlightingconditionsunder

thebridge;structuralpillarswhichallowlightandvisualopenness,poorlighting• Stairwellsunderneathsewagepipes• Noactiveedgeconditionsalongnorth-eastretainingwall;greycoloreduninvitingbuildingfacade• Invitingcornersolution(retail),creatingpedestriantraffic


A

B

• Cornerlots(presentuses:restaurantandcardealership)on9thAveSWand8thStSWofferavarietyofdevelopmentsolutionsandopportunitiestocreateactiveedgealong8thunderpass

Linkages• MajorpedestrianlinkagebetweenBeltlineand8thStC-trainStationwithveryhighfrequency• Importantretaildestinations(Safeway,Outdoorshops)andrestaurant/pubdestinationssouthofCPRTracks

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• Aprox.1metre/3feetmedian• Approx.2.6metresidewalk

Policy Context


• Pedestriancorridor• MajorBusRoute• ExistingOn-StreetBicycleRoute• ProposedKeyOn-StreetBicycleRoute



A49





Physical Context

BuiltForm

6 • Lowdensitylandusesolutionatthenorth-westunderpasscorner(clinic)incl.pedestrianpermeability;openspacearoundbuilding,whichencouragespedestriantraffic

• Builtformanduse(restaurant,pub)doesnotopentopedestrianrealm;façadewithoutprovidingarchitecturalactiveedgesolutions

PedestrianRealm

31

4

365

• Pedestrianrealmwhichiscreatingvariousbarriersforpeoplewithphysicalhandicaps• Attractivepatiosolution(barandrestaurant)withopensuptheretainingwall,landscapedbuildingfrontage

andclearvisibilityfromsidewalk• Commercialadvertisingatthebalustrade,whichcoverscompletebalustrade;poorlightingconditionsunder

thebridge;structuralpillarswhichallowlightandvisualopenness,poorlighting• Stairwellsunderneathsewagepipes• Noactiveedgeconditionsalongnorth-eastretainingwall;greycoloreduninvitingbuildingfacade• Invitingcornersolution(retail),creatingpedestriantraffic


A

B

• Cornerlots(presentuses:restaurantandcardealership)on9thAveSWand8thStSWofferavarietyofdevelopmentsolutionsandopportunitiestocreateactiveedgealong8thunderpass

Linkages• MajorpedestrianlinkagebetweenBeltlineand8thStC-trainStationwithveryhighfrequency• Importantretaildestinations(Safeway,Outdoorshops)andrestaurant/pubdestinationssouthofCPRTracks

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• Aprox.1metre/3feetmedian• Approx.2.6metresidewalk

Policy Context


• Pedestriancorridor• MajorBusRoute• ExistingOn-StreetBicycleRoute• ProposedKeyOn-StreetBicycleRoute

BridgeStructure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √


√

Medians √ √

Railings √


√ √


ActiveEdges √ √



Landscaping √ √





Design Elements










BridgeStructure • NewpaintingofsteelstructurefromCPRbridgerequired 4.1

Balustrades• Newbalustraderequired:encasesewerpipes• Discouragethird-partycommercialadvertisingonbalustrades,butallowbrandingopportunitieson

balustrades4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“green”retainingwallsclosetoexistinglandscapedareas• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonsectionsofthewalls• Whereapplicable,providesurfaceforseatingatthelowerportionoftheretainingwallsadjacenttoexisting

restaurants• Enhancestormwaterpump-stationentrance

4,4

4.2

4.11

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps• Widenstairwellsonbothsideofbridgeonto9AvSW• Replacesidewalk-stairson9AvSWwithramp

4.8

Medians• Upgrademedianwithconcretepedestalandsomeverticalartisticelementsandlandscaping;addmedian

lighting4.6

Railings • Replacementofrailings 4.1


• Clearthedirtcornersfromdebrisatthebridgecorners• Encouragefoliagelighting

4.3

4.4

FunctionalLighting • Requirenewlightingtobrightentheareaunderthetwobridges 4.4

9.4 Recommendations


A51







balustrades4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“green”retainingwallsclosetoexistinglandscapedareas• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonsectionsofthewalls• Whereapplicable,providesurfaceforseatingatthelowerportionoftheretainingwallsadjacenttoexisting

restaurants• Enhancestormwaterpump-stationentrance

4,4

4.2

4.11


4.8


lighting4.6

Railings • Replacementofrailings 4.1



4.3

4.4



ActiveEdges• Requireactiveusebuildingfrontagesatsidewalklevelforallnewdevelopments• Encourageactivebuildingfrontagesinexistingbuildings

4.3

AdvancedLighting• Consideradvancedlightingunderneathofbridgestructure,atretainingwallsandatthebalustradeofboth

bridges4.4

BikeFacilities • 8St.SWisanexistingkeybicycleroute 4.5

Landscaping• Existinglandscapingsetsagoodexample,withtheexceptionofthespacesurroundingtheclinicbuilding

whichrequiresimprovements(e.g.façadegreening,planterssurroundingtheparkinglot)4.7

UniversalDesign• Asahighpedestrian-volumestreet,thedesignofthesidewalkmustprovidefullaccessforthephysically

challengedincludingprovisionsforthevisuallychallenged.4.8


• Usepedestriansignageatappropriatelocationstodirect,advertiseandtellstories• Underpassartsatthebalustrades,theretainingwalls,orembeddedinthesidewalks• Underpassartsatappropriatelocationse.gatbuildingsetbackareas,buildingcorners,furnishingandtree

zones

4.9

4.11

9.4 Recommendation




The8StreetSWUnderpassaccommodatestwobridgesishasthehighestdailypedestrianvolumeofallexaminedunderpasses.Someretailersalongtheunderpasssetagoodexampleinprovidinglandscapingandactiveedgeusealthoughtherearemajordeficienciesalongtheunderpassstreetastheanalysisshows.Thepotentialofthisunderpassjustifiesamajorreconstructionandredesign.

9.4 Recommendations


A53




10. 11 Street Crossing (Potential Underpass)

1 2

3 4

5 6

10.011STREETCROSSING(POTENTIALUNDERPASS)

10.1 Local Context

1/2

AB

C

3/45/6



Ref No.

Descriptions (3 bridges)

Physical Context

BuiltForm 1,2,3 • Atgraderailroadcrossing,surroundedbycar-dealerships,parkinglotsandlowdensityofficeandcommercialonnorthandsouthside

PedestrianRealm

1,2,5 • Sidewalkwithchangingconcreteandblacktopsurface• Widesetbacksofbuildingsof10metres;noactiveedgeconditionswithincrossingrealm

4,5,6 • 2metrewidegravelstropseparatingsidewalkfromlane

7 • Raisedconcretesidewalkwithcurbonwestsideof11Street,landscapedcommercialpropertiesalongsidewalk

• Insufficientbasiclightingforsidewalks


A • Cornerlots(presentuses:surfaceparking,automotiveon10AvenueSWofferavarietyofdevelopmentsolutionsandopportunitiestocreateactiveedgesalong11Street;bridgingopportunityutilizingCPRair-space

• ApprovedDevelopmentPermitoncornerof10Avenue(TheMontreaux)with1400unitsB • Newopportunitiesalongwestsideofunderpassforcommercial

Linkages • MajorpedestrianandbikerlinkagebetweenBeltline,MilleniumParkandBowRiver

EngineeringDesignStandards

• One-waytrafficlanes• On-streetbikepathsapproximately1.4metre/4.5feet• 1.4metre/4.5feetsidewalks

Policy Context


• On-StreetBicycleRoute



A55




BridgeStructure n/a

Balustrades n/a

RetainingWalls n/a


n/a

Medians n/a

Railings n/a


n/a


ActiveEdges √

AdvancedLighting n/a

BikeFacilities √

Landscaping √

UniversalDesign n/a

PedestrianSignage √ √

UnderpassArts n/a


Design Elements









RecommendationsSection No. for Design Guidelines

Thepotentialtobecomeanewunderpasshastobedeterminedbytrafficscenariosandtransportationstrategies.

Toimprovethepedestrianrealmonshortterm,sidewalkwideningandnewsurfaceontheeastsideof11StSWandadditionalbasiclightingisrequired.

4.4

4.5

Recommendon-streetbikelaneseparatedfromtrafficlaneswhentheunderpassisbeingbuilt. 4.5

10.4 Recommendations


A57





11.1 Local Context

1 2

3 4

5 6

3

B

A

2/5

16

4

C



Ref No.

Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm

1 • Majorprovincialhighway(1A)withveryhightrafficvolume• Lightindustrialandcommerciallanduseonbothsidesoftheunderpassbetween10Avand11Av;built

formwhichdoesnotopentopedestrianrealmalongtheunderpass(chainlinkfences,steepberms);industrialandcommercialbuildingse.g.lightingsstore,autodealershipsandautorepair

• CPRbridgefromapprox.1950ties(samestyleas4thSWunderpass);2overpassesfor8AvSW

PedestrianRealm

2

632115

• Pedestrianrealmwithinthis3-bridgeenvironmentprovidesanapprox.2.5metreswidepathway;widestairwellsonbothsideofbridgestructure;greenbermsonnorthandsouthsidesofbridge

• Sidewalkatgradeunderneath8Ave.bridges,gradeseparationunderneathCPR• Unsecuredpedestriancrossingsatstreetexitto9AveSW• Cleanbutroughconcreteenvironmentunderneath9Avestreetbridges• Noactiveedgeconditionsalongretainingwalls;largestormwaterpumpstationarea• Greenbermswithdispersedbushesandtreescreatingsomewhatcomfortableatmosphere• UnderpassusedfrequentlyusedbyjoggersandbikerstoandfromMilleniumParkandBowRiver

pathway;bikersusemainlystreetlane(observationduringphotoshooting)

RedevelopmentOpportunities A,B,C

• ApprovedDevelopmentPermitoncornerof10Ave(TheMontreaux)with1400units• Newopportunitiesalongwestsideofunderpassforcommercial

Linkages• NolinkageindicationinCCPon14StSWunderpass• Importantretaildestinations(Safeway,Outdoorshops)andrestaurant/pubdestinationssouthofCPR

Tracks

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• 1metre/3feetmedian• 2.0–2.4metressidewalks

Policy Context

CentreCityBeltlinePlanARP

• HighTrafficVolumeStreet• KeyOn-StreetBicycleRoutecrossingbridgeon10AvSW



A59




Ref No.

Descriptions

Physical Context

BuiltForm

1 • Majorprovincialhighway(1A)withveryhightrafficvolume• Lightindustrialandcommerciallanduseonbothsidesoftheunderpassbetween10Avand11Av;built

formwhichdoesnotopentopedestrianrealmalongtheunderpass(chainlinkfences,steepberms);industrialandcommercialbuildingse.g.lightingsstore,autodealershipsandautorepair

• CPRbridgefromapprox.1950ties(samestyleas4thSWunderpass);2overpassesfor8AvSW

PedestrianRealm

2

632115

• Pedestrianrealmwithinthis3-bridgeenvironmentprovidesanapprox.2.5metreswidepathway;widestairwellsonbothsideofbridgestructure;greenbermsonnorthandsouthsidesofbridge

• Sidewalkatgradeunderneath8Ave.bridges,gradeseparationunderneathCPR• Unsecuredpedestriancrossingsatstreetexitto9AveSW• Cleanbutroughconcreteenvironmentunderneath9Avestreetbridges• Noactiveedgeconditionsalongretainingwalls;largestormwaterpumpstationarea• Greenbermswithdispersedbushesandtreescreatingsomewhatcomfortableatmosphere• UnderpassusedfrequentlyusedbyjoggersandbikerstoandfromMilleniumParkandBowRiver

pathway;bikersusemainlystreetlane(observationduringphotoshooting)

RedevelopmentOpportunities A,B,C

• ApprovedDevelopmentPermitoncornerof10Ave(TheMontreaux)with1400units• Newopportunitiesalongwestsideofunderpassforcommercial

Linkages• NolinkageindicationinCCPon14StSWunderpass• Importantretaildestinations(Safeway,Outdoorshops)andrestaurant/pubdestinationssouthofCPR

Tracks

RoadDesign• 4one-waytrafficlanes• 1metre/3feetmedian• 2.0–2.4metressidewalks

Policy Context

CentreCityBeltlinePlanARP

• HighTrafficVolumeStreet• KeyOn-StreetBicycleRoutecrossingbridgeon10AvSW

BridgeStructure √

Balustrades √

RetainingWalls √


√

Medians √

Railings √


√


ActiveEdges - - - √


BikeFacilities(none) - - √

Landscaping √ √





Design Elements

Evaluation of Existing ConditionsNon-existing,StructuralCondition(evaluatedbyCityofCalgary,Roads)











balustrades4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“green”retainingwallsclosetoexistinglandscapedareas• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonsectionsofthewalls• Enhancestormwaterpump-stationentrance

4.2

4.4


4.5


lighting4.6

Railings • Replacementofrailings






A61







balustrades4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewalls• Usewaterproofsolutionstoavoidwaterrunoffonretainingwalls• Encourage“green”retainingwallsclosetoexistinglandscapedareas• Considerusingdurable,easytoclean,graffiti-proofmaterials• Installpictureframesonthewallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplay• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonsectionsofthewalls• Enhancestormwaterpump-stationentrance

4.2

4.4


4.5


lighting4.6

Railings • Replacementofrailings





BridgeStructure • Norecommendation 4.1

Balustrades • Norecommendation 4.1

RetainingWalls

• Embedsmalllightingfeaturesintheconcretewallsofallthreebridges• Encourage“green”retainingwalls,especiallyaroundstormwaterpump-station• Installpictureframesonwallsforchangeableinterpretivesignageorartdisplayofallthreewalls• Useceramictilestocreatemosaicartonsomesectionsofthewalls• Enhancestormwaterpump-stationentrance

4.4

4.2

4.11

4.10

Sidewalks,StairsandRamps• Providenewsurfaceblacktopforsidewalk• Providestreetmarkings,signageandlightingforsafercrossingofstreetexitsto9AVSW

4.8

Median • Upgrademedianwithe.g.concretepedestalandadddecorativemedianlightingelements 4.6

Railings • Paintrailings 4.1


• Duetosteepslopesthecreationofinterfaceswithbuildingfrontsandentrancesisachallenge 4.3

FunctionalLighting • RequirenewlightingtobrightentheareaundertheCPRbridgeduringdaytimeandafterdark 4.4




A63


APPENDIX C: JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

Appendix C Case Study4TH STREET SE UNDERPASS

1.0 Vision Statement and Key Principles ..................................................................................................... A64

2.0 Master Plan ...............................................................................................................................................A65

3.0 Design Elements .......................................................................................................................................A66

4.0 Visualization ..............................................................................................................................................A67

A64 APPENDIX C: JULY 2010 DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

1.0VisionStatementandKeyPrinciples4TH STREET SE UNDERPASS

During 2007 and 2008 stakeholders for the proposed 4 Street SEUnderpassdiscussedthefuturedesignofthisunderpassandagreedonaVisionStatementandKeyPrinciplesinordertoachieveahighqualitypublicrealm:

Vision Statement

“ A welcoming, high quality, pedestrian orientated, multi modalcontinuousconnectionbetweenthehighstreetsoftwovibrant,dense,urbanneighborhoods.”

Key Principles

1. Pedestriansandcyclistsareafirstpriority.

2. A continuous pedestrian experience from neighborhood toneighborhood.

3. Safety:mustprovideasenseofsecurity.

4. Minimizeloweringofexistingintersections.

5. Universalaccessibilityforallpedestriansandcycliststobeprovidedatgrade.

6. Minimizeimpactofvehiclesonpedestrians(cornerradii).

7. Designmustencouragecivilbehavior.

8. Beauty and grace to be reflected in structure and proportion(overpass).

9. Structureshallbecomfortable,inviting(lightingandspacearekey).

10. Structure must enhance adjacent development with active edgeopportunities.

11.Maximizeclearspan.

12. Localcollectorstreetstandardmustberespected.

13.Designshouldcelebrateexistingbuiltheritage.

14. Lane widths should be designed to minimum standards, outsidelanestoaccommodatecyclists.

15.Maintainon-streetparking(northandsouthofstructure).

16. Publicartandstructureasarttobeintegratedintodesign.

17. East/Westconnectivitysouthoftheunderpassapriority.

18.Designshouldincorporatesustainable“green’principles.

A65


4TH STREET SE UNDERPASS


2.0MasterPlan

Themasterplan for4StreetSEUnderpasshas incorporatedthekeyprinciplesasidentifiedbythestakeholdergroupsforthisunderpassandmanydesignelementsthatareproposedinthisGuideline,includingactiveedges,sidewalk/multi-usepathway,medians, landscaping,underpassart,etc..

Since the construction of the underpass structure and utilityinfrastructurehasstartedin2009,thismaterplanisnotareflectionofwhatishappeningontheground,butarepresentationofbest-practiceurbandesignsolutions.

Area (see illustration on the next page)Legend

A66


APPENDIX C: JULY 2010 DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

3.0DesignElements

Thedesignofactiveedgesincludescontinuousactiveusebuildingfrontagesatsidewalklevel,andanactivitynode.Theactivitynodeprovidesafocalpointinthearea,aneast-westpedestrian/bikeconnection,andalargegreenspaceinbetweentheproposedhigh-densityresidentialdevelopments.Themulti-usestructurebreaksdown the long linear retainingwalls and thegradedifferencebetween the sidewalk level andsurroundingprivateproperties. The2-storey structure functions as stairs and ramps, aswell as a landmark featurebyincorporatingactiveuse,speciallighting,andpublicartintothedesign.

A67




4.0 Visualization

Thevisualizationdemonstratesthevarietyofurbandesignopportunitieswithinanunderpassretrofitornewconstruction.

The internal and external engagement and consulting processes forthenew4StreetSEunderpasscommencedin2006,leadinguptothedesigncurrentlyunderconstruction.Duringthedevelopmentoftheseguidelines, because it was completely new, 4 Street SE was used toillustrateasfullarangeaspossibleofthepossibledesignopportunities.Theconsultantsfortheunderpassurbandesignconceptcurrentlyunderconstructionwereengagedduring thecreationof thisdocumentandtheimplementeddesignreflectsmanyoftheconceptsdiscussed.

A68



4.0 Visualization

3

3

4

4


ActiveEdges

5

5

6

6

UnderpassArts

UniversalDesignTextileSystemSeparatingSidewalkandCycleTrack

1

1

2

2

BridgeStructure

SidewalkZone 4

A69




4.0 Visualization

Median

3

33

4

4

ActiveEdges1

1

2

22

BridgeStructure

SidewalkZone

A70



4.0 Visualization

3

3

PublicAccessiblePrivatePlaza/ParkSidewalkZone

5

5

6

6

BridgeStructure

Mulsti-UsePathway

1

1

2

2

ActivityNode/Multi-useStructureStorefronts 4

4

labellingonthisphotoisn’trightCarmenMarch18th

A71




4.0 Visualization

3

3


ActiveEdges

5

5

6

6

UnderpassArts

UniversalDesignTextileSystemSeparatingSidewalkandCycleTrack

1

1

2

2

BridgeStructure

Sidewalk 4

4

A72



4.0 Visualization

3

3

High-densityResidentialDevelopmentActiveEdge

5

5

6

UniversalDesign

Arts

1

1

2

2

Plaza/Park

ActivityNode/Multi-useStructure

4

4

6

A73




4.0 Visualization

NighttimeVisualization

A74



3 StreetLightingandIlluminationCombinedActiveEdge

5

5

BridgeStructureandBalustrade1

1

2

2

Plaza/Park

On-StreetBikePath 4

4

4.0 Visualization

3

ImagebyMarshallTittemoreArchitects

4 Street SE Underpass Consultant Design

A75




2 Bridgebalustradewithbris-de-soleilpublicartcombined

3 ActiveEdgebasement-levelopeningsandstore/officefronts

1 RetainingWallwithilluminationfeatures

4.0 Visualization

1

2

3



A76



4.0 Visualization

3 Wayfindingandstreetmap

Off-streetMulti-usePathway

5

5

Patios1

1

2

2

Plaza/Park(10Avecul-de-sac)Seamlesspedestrianlinksandramps

4

4

3



APPENDIX D: JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES A77



Appendix D: Project Credits

Project Preparation

UrbanDesign&HeritageCentreCityPlanning&DesignLandUsePlanning&PolicyTheCityofCalgary

Internal Stakeholder Circulation

LandUsePlanning&Policy/CentreCity

TransportationPlanning/CentreCity

TransportationPlanning/PedestrianandBicyclePolicy&Projects

TransportationPlanning/NetworkPlanning

TransportationPlanning/DevelopmentServices

TransportationPlanning/TransportationSolutions

CalgaryTransit

Roads/SubdivisionDevelopment

Roads/Streetlighting

Roads/Bridges&Structures

Roads/TrafficEngineering

Recreation/PublicArt

Parks/UrbanForestry

CentreCityImplementation

“4 Street SE Community Link” Engagement Sessions 2005-2006

AlanJacobsMcElhanneyConsultingScatliff+Miller+MurrayBucklandTaylorAldermen,Ward7andWard8LandUsePlanning&Policy,CityofCalgaryTransportation,CityofCalgaryCorporateProperties,CityofCalgaryParks,CityofCalgaryRecreation/PublicArt,CityofCalgaryVictoriaCrossingBRZ

External Stakeholder Circulation

CalgaryMunicipalLandCorporation(CMLC)

MarshallTittemoreArchitects(MTA)

CalgaryDowntownAssociation

BeltlineCommunityAssociation

VictoriaCrossingBRZ

Contact

LandUsePlanning&PolicyTheCityofCalgaryP.O.Box2100,StnM#8117Calgary,ABT2P2M5

A78



APPENDIX D: JULY 2010 DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

Photo Credits

MarshallTittemoreArchitects



FestivalofLightBerlin

FestivalofLightBerlin Corbin

Corbin

IngenieurbueroBarrierefreiesPlanen+Bauen,Fulda(Germany)

A79




APPENDIX D: JULY 2010DOWNTOWN UNDERPASS URBAN DESIGN GUIDELINES

Corbin

CalgaryDowntownRetailDistrictStrategy

CalgaryDowntownRetailDistrictStrategy

Documents

June 2010 Approved Downtown Underpass Urban Design Guidelines · underpass design and improvements that would guide the public and private sectors. It is intended to achieve a high-quality