New 5 Avenue Lane Reversal Starts May 19

Calgarians will soon have another option when travelling west out of downtown during the afternoon peak period. Starting on May 19, two lanes of 5 Avenue S.W. will have a lane reversal to allow for westbound traffic between 7 Street S.W. and approximately 11 Street S.W.

“This lane reversal will help to improve mobility by accommodating approximately 600 vehicles  per hour on an alternative westbound route,” says Troy Mcleod, Director of Roads. “As a result, it will reduce congestion on 4 and 6 Avenues S.W., which will improve traffic flow out of downtown for all vehicles, including transit.”

This lane reversal will be operational between 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on weekdays, except holidays. The lane reversal will feature two westbound lanes and three eastbound lanes.

Motorists in the left westbound lane will  turn  south onto 10 Street S.W., while motorists in the right westbound lane will continue  to a new  traffic light at 5 Avenue and the ramp to Bow Trail S.W.

“It is important that citizens’ pay close attention to all signage along the lane reversal route,” says McLeod. “There will be a lot of changes between 7 and 11 Street S.W. and we want to keep everyone safe while they adjust to the new direction.”

The lane reversal will be in place for approximately six months as a pilot, after which time its success will be evaluated and next steps will be considered.  During the pilot, traffic barricades and other control devices will be used to operate the lane reversal.

For more information or to provide feedback on the project, visit Calgary.ca/5ave.